THE Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has reportedly carried out a significant reshuffle within its hierarchy.
This was made known on Saturday by Zagazola Makama, a Lake Chad Basin counterterrorism and insurgency expert, in a post on his X handle.
Makama disclosed that more than 30 fighters have volunteered to become suicide bombers among the ISWAP members.
The development is said to be potentially linked to the recent surge in attacks on military locations across the Lake Chad region.
Makama, citing intelligence sources, said the position of overall commander for the Southern Lake Chad Basin Region Authority (LCRBA) was recently declared vacant, prompting a leadership change.
According to the security expert, “Abu Usman, also known as Usman Russia, who previously held the role of Amirul Fiya (Chief Military Commander) in the Southern LCRBA, is believed to have been neutralised in recent operations. He has been replaced by Abu Saleh, a key ISWAP figure previously stationed in Tumbun Gini, Abadam Local Government Area.”
He stated that Abu Saleh had served as a Kheed in Tumbun Gini before his new appointment.
“His promotion to overall commander came with a declaration by ISWAP leaders that the position would be filled by an individual capable of executing at least four significant attacks on military locations within a month. Abu Saleh reportedly volunteered, vowing to meet the challenge.
“Shortly after his appointment, In October 2024, Abu Saleh inaugurated a team of about 150 Special Forces led by a commander known as Abu Ubaida in a meeting that took place in Kangarwa and Dogon Chikun, believed to be the stronghold of the ISWAP,” Makama said.
“This unit has been mobilised with the specific intent of executing coordinated attacks on military locations which is currently happening.
“Abu Ubaida was appointed as the lead of this offensive, with four additional commanders under his direct control: Abu Ali, Ibn Mustapha, Abu Nazir and Goni Ali,” he said.
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