By: Bayero Ade
The Boko Haram insurgent group, formally known as Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunnah Lid-Da’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS), has taunted its rival faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), following a failed assault on Nigerian military forces in Kukawa, Borno State.
According to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola, JAS mocked ISWAP’s unsuccessful operation, suggesting it highlighted the latter’s lack of military strategy compared to JAS’s more effective tactics. JAS reportedly shared images through their communication channels showing fallen ISWAP fighters and destroyed equipment, emphasizing the heavy losses suffered by their adversaries.
This incident underscores the ongoing rivalry between JAS and ISWAP, as both groups compete for control of territory in the Lake Chad region. JAS has continued to project strength, while ISWAP struggles to execute successful large-scale operations.
Despite ISWAP’s initial claims of success, Nigerian military forces successfully thwarted the assault with superior tactics. The military reported eliminating 12 ISWAP fighters, destroying seven Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), and recovering 40 motorcycles.
In addition, Nigerian forces seized significant weaponry, including five AK-47 rifles, one Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG), two anti-aircraft guns, and 152 Shilka rounds. This failed attack further highlights the challenges ISWAP faces in mounting effective offensives, while Nigerian forces continue to secure their position in the region.
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