Fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province have reportedly killed several of their own after rival commanders clashed over a planned attack.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed Sunday that the infighting occurred in the Timbuktu Triangle, a known terrorist stronghold.
The disagreement reportedly centered on the timing and target of an operation, leading to exchanges of fire between loyalists of different commanders.
While exact casualty figures remain unclear, sources say many fighters were killed. The internal strife offers a potential respite for security forces battling the insurgency in the northeast.
However, analysts warn that such splits often lead to more unpredictable violence. ISWAP has been responsible for numerous attacks on military bases and civilian communities in Borno and Yobe states.
The faction broke away from Boko Haram years ago but remains a deadly threat. Ordinary Nigerians in the region continue to live in fear of attacks, with thousands displaced.
