In a devastating clash on Saturday, approximately 70 combatants and commanders were feared dead as Boko Haram and its rival terrorist group, ISWAP, engaged in fierce fighting. Sources indicate that the rivalry between the two groups has intensified recently, with an influx of arms and fighters from the Sahel ISIS joining ISWAP in the Chad Basin to reinforce their control over the region.
The ongoing conflict has led both terrorist factions to escalate their activities in the Niger Republic section of the Lake Chad Basin, prompting Nigerian refugees in the neighboring Francophone country to return home. This influx has contributed to the overcrowding of the IDPs camp at Damasak, Mobbar LGA of Borno State.
The clash, which occurred at Tumbum Ali Island in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State around 2 pm on Saturday, was reportedly a retaliatory attack by ISWAP against Boko Haram for the significant loss of ISWAP fighters at the hands of the Buduma factions.
According to security and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, six boats belonging to the Bakura Buduma faction and four JAS elements boats, all carrying fighters, were destroyed in the clash.
While initial reports suggest casualties on both sides could exceed 60, other sources indicate the toll may be around 70 or even higher, as the conflict continued unabated. The clashes highlight a complex three-way terror scenario involving the MNJTF, Boko Haram, and ISWAP, each vying for dominance in the Chad Basin region.
