Jihadist Fighting Leaves Around 200 Dead in Nigeria

Clashes between rival jihadist factions in northeast Nigeria have killed around 200 fighters in the Lake Chad area. Fighting broke out on Sunday in Dogon Chiku, fueled by territorial disputes and ideological differences. The conflict involves Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Intelligence sources, local militias, and former militants all confirmed heavy casualties from the clashes. The region has seen repeated violence since ISWAP split from Boko Haram in 2016.

According to Babakura Kolo, a member of an anti-jihadist militia assisting the Nigerian military, around 200 ISWAP fighters were killed. He also said several weapons were seized during the clashes. A former Boko Haram militant, who monitors jihadist activities in the region, confirmed similar figures. He noted that Boko Haram lost only four fighters in the battle. This contrast highlights the scale of ISWAP losses compared to Boko Haram’s minimal casualties.

Saddiku, the former Boko Haram member, called the clash possibly the worst between the two groups since their split. He lives in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state, the epicenter of the insurgency. Saddiku said the fighting reflects ongoing territorial struggles and deepening ideological rifts. The battle has drawn attention from local authorities and the military, who are monitoring the aftermath. Such clashes continue to destabilize the Lake Chad area, making it unsafe for civilians.

A Nigerian intelligence source said they were tracking the aftermath and estimated around 150 fighters killed. The source called the fighting “good news” from their perspective, indicating progress against jihadist factions. Both Boko Haram and ISWAP have been engaged in deadly infighting for years. Much of the fighting occurs around Lake Chad, a strategic location for controlling territory and resources. Analysts say these battles weaken both groups but increase instability in local communities.

The conflict between Boko Haram and ISWAP started in 2016 over ideological differences. Since then, both groups have clashed repeatedly over territorial control and influence in northeast Nigeria. The recent battle highlights the ongoing dangers in the region despite military interventions. Local militias and intelligence agencies continue monitoring the area to prevent further bloodshed. Civilians, however, remain highly vulnerable to the violence caused by these jihadist factions.

READ MORE : Tragic Boat Accident in Nigeria Leaves Over 40 Missing

The accident occurred on a busy waterway, and initial details show the boat was carrying more people than allowed.

According to local media, the boat had more than 50 passengers onboard at the time of the incident. Witnesses said the vessel struggled to maintain balance before capsizing.

Authorities believe overcrowding was the main reason behind the disaster, which made the situation even more dangerous.

Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) quickly responded to the tragedy. In a statement released on social media, the agency confirmed that ten passengers were rescued.