The Boko Haram terrorist group has confirmed the death of its Leader, Abubakar Shekau, who reportedly died in a battle with the rival Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) faction.
The insurgents confirmed Shekau’s death in a video message from its presumed new commander.
In the video shot in Arabic language, the top Boko Haram commander, Bakura Modu, also known as Sahaba, urged his faction’s commanders to remain loyal despite the loss of their historic leader.
The video, made public by Agence France Presse (AFP), was provided by a source close to Boko Haram.
Recall that on Wednesday, May 19, 2021, reports emerged that Shekau died after sustaining serious injuries, following ISWAP’s invasion of the terror group’s stronghold in Sambisa forest.
In an audio, ISWAP commander, Abu Musab Al-Barnawi, had claimed Shekau killed himself while on the run from ISWAP fighters.
However, in the recent undated video, Bakura, guarded by scores of armed fighters in formation, addressed the camera, saying, “Commanders of Jama’atu Ahlu Sunna Lidda’awati Wal Jihad. Be steadfast and draw your swords, spreading your jihad, decapitating the enemy.
“Don’t allow what befalls you these days to weaken your resolve on the jihad your are waging, because Allah has not forsaken your efforts.”
The new commander also urged Boko Haram fighters to reject ISWAP commander, Barnawi.
