Over 23 Terrorists Reportedly Killed in Sambisa Clash

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More than 23 fighters belonging to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have reportedly been killed in a fresh clash between the rival insurgent groups in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State.

 

The reported confrontation took place around the Chingolo axis of Bama Local Government Area, where Boko Haram fighters allegedly attacked ISWAP members who were moving into the area.

 

Counter-terrorism analyst Zagazola Makama reported the development in a post on X, saying the fighting formed part of renewed hostilities between the two factions.

 

According to the account, the latest fighting began about two days before the report was published on Friday, September 4, 2026. The confrontation reportedly involved sustained exchanges of gunfire as the rival groups battled over territory and influence.

 

Makama said preliminary intelligence indicated that more than 23 fighters had been killed on both sides since the latest round of fighting began. However, he noted that the exact number of casualties suffered by each faction could not immediately be independently verified.

 

Daily Post separately reported the alleged clash, also citing the reported death toll of more than 23 terrorists.

 

Rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP

 

Boko Haram and ISWAP have a history of violent rivalry despite both groups operating within Nigeria’s wider insurgency landscape.

 

The split between the factions has resulted in repeated clashes over territory, resources, supply routes and control of fighters in parts of northeastern Nigeria.

 

The Sambisa Forest has historically been an important operating area for insurgent groups, making control of its territory strategically significant.

 

Makama said the latest confrontation was triggered after ISWAP elements reportedly moved into the Chingolo area, prompting Boko Haram fighters to launch an attack.

 

He added that the fighting could weaken both factions and disrupt their activities in the area.

 

Security forces monitoring developments

 

According to the report, security agencies are monitoring movements linked to the rival groups and using available intelligence to track developments in the forest.

 

The reported internal fighting comes as Nigerian security forces continue counter-terrorism operations against insurgent groups operating across the northeast.

 

Makama said security forces had continued efforts targeting terrorist concentrations, logistics networks and hideouts.

 

Communities around the Sambisa Forest have also been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to authorities.

 

While reports of more than 23 deaths have emerged, D2REPORTER could not independently verify the casualty figure or establish the identities of those reportedly killed.

 

The Boko Haram ISWAP clash therefore remains a developing security story, with further confirmation expected from military or other official sources.

 

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