A deadly battle for supremacy between the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and the Boko Haram faction has led to casualties and territorial shifts in the Lake Chad region of Borno State.
The clash, which occurred on Toumbun Gini Island in Abadam Local Government Area, resulted in the deaths of at least 100 fighters from both factions, with ISWAP suffering over 90 casualties.
Zagazola Makama, a security Analyst, and insurgency expert familiar with the trend in the Lake Chad disclosed this on his X handle, saying that the Boko Haram fighters, led by Bakoura (aka Abu Umaima), launched a surprise attack, capturing weapons, equipment, and territory, including the strategic areas of Toumbun Kare and Toumbun Rogo on its rival ISWAP.
According to Makama, this deadly clash is the latest in a series of deadly encounters between the rival factions.
Recall thst earlier in July, Boko Haram fighters have attacked ISWAP positions in Kwatar Shalla Shuwari, killing 16 fighters and seizing weapons and water vessels.
Makama added that in another confrontation in Dawashi Kwalta resulted earlier on July 8 over 20 ISWAP fighters were killed or drown while attempting to flee.
Despite Boko Haram currently holding control over most parts of the area, the situation remains volatile, with ISWAP reportedly planning a counter-offensive to reclaim lost territory.
The ongoing rivalry between these two extremist groups underscores the persistent instability in the region.
