More than 23 terrorists have reportedly been killed in renewed fighting between rival Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province factions in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State.
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The latest confrontation reportedly took place around the Chingolo axis of Bama Local Government Area, where Boko Haram fighters attacked ISWAP members who were advancing into the area.
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Counter-terrorism expert Zagazola Makama disclosed the development in a post on X, saying the clashes were part of a fresh wave of fighting between the two rival groups.
The hostilities reportedly began about two days before the latest confrontation and have involved sustained exchanges of gunfire as both sides attempt to strengthen their positions within the forest.
Makama said the Boko Haram fighters launched the attack after ISWAP elements moved into the Chingolo area. The development is believed to be connected to the long-running rivalry between the groups over territory, movement routes, resources and control of fighters.
Preliminary intelligence indicated that more than 23 fighters had been killed across both sides since the latest clashes began. However, the exact number of casualties suffered by each faction could not be independently confirmed.
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The renewed fighting is expected to further weaken the two terrorist groups, particularly in Sambisa Forest, which has remained one of the major operating areas for insurgents in the North-East.
The internal conflict could also disrupt the movement of fighters, supplies and other resources used by the groups to sustain their operations in Borno and surrounding areas.
Security forces are reportedly monitoring the situation and using available intelligence to track the movements and activities of the rival factions.
The latest clashes come as Nigerian security forces continue operations against terrorist groups across the North-East, targeting their hideouts, logistics networks and concentrations of fighters.
The renewed infighting between Boko Haram and ISWAP could provide additional opportunities for security forces to weaken the groups and restrict their ability to operate freely.
Residents and communities around the Sambisa Forest area have also been urged to remain alert and report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies.
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