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A rare confrontation between suspected rival terrorist groups has been reported in Kebbi State, sparking renewed concerns over evolving security threats in Nigeria’s North-West region.
Security and local sources told Zagazola the incident occurred on April 4, when a faction identified as Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) claimed it engaged a rival group it described as “Khawarij.”
The group alleged that the clash resulted in the death of one fighter, while another was captured. It also claimed that three motorcycles and about N10 million were recovered during the encounter.
However, independent verification of the claims, including the identity of the opposing faction, remains unclear.
Preliminary intelligence suggests the rival group may have links to Boko Haram or one of its splinter factions, though authorities have yet to confirm this.
A security source familiar with developments in the area described the incident as unusual.
“This appears to be one of the first indications of inter-factional clashes among jihadist groups in this part of the North-West. It is a development that requires close monitoring,” the source said.
Another official cautioned against drawing firm conclusions at this stage.
“At the moment, much of the information is based on claims by one side. Verification is ongoing to establish the exact groups involved and the circumstances surrounding the clash,” the official noted.
Analysts say that, if confirmed, the development could signal a shift in the operational dynamics of armed groups in the region, potentially complicating ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report.
Rival terrorist factions clash in Kebbi, raising fresh security concerns
