Rival terrorist factions clash in Kebbi, raising fresh security concerns
News Rival terrorist factions clash in Kebbi, raising fresh security concerns Published on April 7, 2026 By Kabeer Bello googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1500386953281-8'); }); 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. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1524595905268-5'); }); 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. Don't Miss Lawyer knocks Wike for ‘threatening journalist’, questions leadership qualities You may like BREAKING: Kebbi Assembly Speaker, Muhammad Ankwai dead Kebbi: Ex-PDP guber candidate, Aminu Bande defects to ADC Kebbi PDP ex-guber candidate, Aminu Bande resigns Troops arrest suspected terrorist, recover rifle in Zamfara Police neutralise suspected Lakurawa bandit, recover 33 rustled livestock in Kebbi Troops recover 31 cattle, arrest five suspected rustlers in Kebbi