Boko Haram, ISWAP Fighters Clash in Sambisa Forest

Fresh violence has erupted in Nigeria’s insurgency-hit North-East as fighters belonging to Boko Haram and rival faction Islamic State West Africa Province engaged in a fierce confrontation inside Sambisa Forest, multiple security sources have confirmed.

The clash, which reportedly occurred deep within the forest in Borno State, is believed to have been triggered by a dispute over territorial control and access to key supply routes. Sambisa Forest has long served as a strategic hideout for insurgent groups operating across the Lake Chad Basin, making it a critical asset for both factions.

Sources familiar with the development said the fighting lasted several hours, with sustained gunfire and the movement of armed fighters reported across different parts of the forest. While casualty figures remain unclear, it is feared that both groups suffered notable losses.

The confrontation underscores the deepening rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP, two factions that have been locked in a bitter struggle since a major split within the insurgent movement several years ago. ISWAP, which maintains links with the global Islamic State network, broke away from Boko Haram over ideological differences and leadership disputes.

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Analysts note that ISWAP has attempted to position itself as a more structured organisation, often criticising Boko Haram’s earlier tactics, particularly attacks targeting Muslim civilians. Boko Haram factions, on the other hand, have resisted ISWAP’s expansion efforts, leading to repeated violent confrontations between the two groups.

The power struggle intensified following the death of Boko Haram’s former leader, Abubakar Shekau, who reportedly died in 2021 during a similar clash with ISWAP fighters. Since then, both groups have continued to compete for dominance across territories in North-Eastern Nigeria.

Security experts say the latest fighting could temporarily disrupt insurgent operations in the area, but caution that such internal battles do not necessarily weaken the long-term threat posed by the groups. “These factions often regroup quickly. While clashes like this may reduce their immediate capacity, they rarely bring a lasting end to the insurgency,” one analyst said.

Efforts by Nigerian security forces to dislodge insurgents from Sambisa Forest and surrounding areas have been ongoing, with a combination of ground offensives and aerial bombardments carried out in recent years. However, the vast terrain and difficult accessibility of the forest continue to pose significant challenges for sustained military control.

As of press time, authorities in Nigeria had yet to issue an official statement detailing the incident. Residents in nearby communities have expressed concern over the renewed violence, fearing possible spill-over attacks.

The latest clash highlights the complex and evolving nature of the insurgency in North-Eastern Nigeria, where fragmentation among extremist groups has added another layer of unpredictability to an already protracted conflict.

Boko Haram, ISWAP Fighters Clash in Sambisa Forest

Suspected Terrorists Attack Mobile Force Camp in Kwara, Kill Three Officers

Ilorin — Suspected terrorists on Saturday launched a deadly attack on a Police Mobile Force (PMF) camp in Kwara State, killing three officers and leaving two others injured in what authorities describe as a coordinated assault.

The attack occurred in the early hours in Tenebo community, Kaiama Local Government Area, a border region that has witnessed rising insecurity in recent months.

Sources within the community said the gunmen, believed to be heavily armed, stormed the camp unexpectedly, catching officers on duty off guard. The assailants reportedly opened fire, overwhelming the personnel before fleeing the scene.

A security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that three mobile police officers lost their lives during the હુમલો, while two others sustained injuries and were rushed to a nearby medical facility for treatment.

The Nigeria Police Force has acknowledged the incident, though official details remain limited as of press time. A police spokesperson said efforts are ongoing to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the attack.

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“We are aware of the incident and have commenced investigation. Further updates will be communicated in due course,” the spokesperson stated.

Security operatives have since been deployed to the area, with indications that a manhunt has been launched to track down the perpetrators.

Rising insecurity

The latest attack underscores growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Kwara State, particularly in Kaiama Local Government Area, which shares proximity with forested regions believed to harbour criminal elements.

Residents say the region has experienced sporadic attacks in recent weeks, with armed groups targeting both security formations and rural communities.

A local resident, who declined to be named for security reasons, described the situation as alarming. “We heard gunshots in the night. People are now living in fear because these હુમલાઓ are becoming frequent,” he said.

Calls for action

Security analysts have warned that the incident highlights the need for strengthened intelligence gathering and increased security presence in vulnerable border communities.

As of the time of filing this report, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and authorities have urged residents to remain calm while investigations continue.

The injured officers are said to be responding to treatment, while arrangements are being made for the deceased personnel.

Further developments are expected as security agencies intensify efforts to restore calm in the affected area.

Suspected Terrorists Attack Mobile Force Camp in Kwara, Kill Three Officers

Osogbo United Youth Forum Calls for Peace, Facts in Boundary Dispute, Rejects Divisive Claims

OSOGBO, NIGERIA – In a firm stand for truth and harmony, the Osogbo United Youth Forum (OUYF) has called on all stakeholders to reject recent misleading narratives regarding the boundary issues between Osogbo and Ede, urging instead a return to verified history and peaceful coexistence.

At a press briefing in Osogbo, the Forum’s Public Relations Officer, Comrade Adedapo Adebisi, expressed deep concern over what he described as an attempt to distort well-documented historical facts for divisive purposes. He stressed that such narratives must not be allowed to fester.

“Osogbo’s history is clear and cannot be manipulated. We urge everyone involved to prioritize truth, fairness, and respect for established records. This is the only path to mutual understanding and lasting peace,” Adebisi stated.

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In a significant development, Comrade Adebisi noted that the Alabeere of Abeere has publicly condemned and dissociated himself from the false claims, clarifying that the report in circulation did not originate from his quarters. The youth forum warned that such fabricated information is capable of igniting chaos and public unrest, insisting that such actions must not be allowed to recur.

The forum emphasized the long-standing cordial relationship between the people of Osogbo and Ede, highlighting that unity and collaboration are essential for sustainable development in the region. Leaders, elders, and citizens were called upon to resist inflammatory rhetoric and work collectively to strengthen communal bonds.

The President of OUYF, Ayoola Mutiu Odofin, and General Secretary, Comrade Adeagbo Suraj A., reaffirmed the group’s commitment to promoting peace and protecting the integrity of Osogbo’s heritage.

The youth forum made a strong appeal to government authorities, traditional institutions, and community leaders to address boundary disputes with transparency and fairness. Youths across Osogbo were encouraged to remain vigilant, reject divisive narratives, and champion dialogue as the most effective tool for lasting peace.

“We are committed to engaging constructively with all stakeholders, offering our platform as a bridge for dialogue, reconciliation, and collective progress,” the statement concluded.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Comrade Adedapo Adebisi

Public Relations Officer, Osogbo United Youth Forum

Osogbo United Youth Forum Calls for Peace, Facts in Boundary Dispute, Rejects Divisive Claims