A terrorist group led by Dogo Gide has reportedly killed 20 Boko Haram fighters from the Sadiku faction and seized a cache of weapons.

According to a statement by security analyst and counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, on Thursday, the latest round of killings is the result of a battle for supremacy.

?In a complex and evolving battle for supremacy in Nigeria?s North-West, a recently surfaced video shows notorious bandit leader, Dogo Gide, addressing his rivals, claiming victory after an ambush attempt by the Sadiku faction,? Makama wrote on X.

In the video, Gide displayed seized items, including ten AK-47 rifles, RPGs, mobile phones, and an identity card allegedly linked to members of the faction.

?Sadiku and his group ambushed us, but we prevailed. Only one of our men was injured, while at least 20 of their men were killed,? Gide stated.

He further accused the Sadiku faction of hypocrisy, condemning them for killing women, children, and innocent people under the guise of jihad.

Makama said this development highlights the shifting dynamics of extremist activities in the region, where alliances and rivalries among criminal and terrorist groups continue to complicate security efforts.

He added that the rivalry between Gide and Boko Haram factions, particularly the Sadiku-led group, appears to stem from deeply personal and strategic reasons.

Makama stated that credible intelligence suggests that Gide, once an ally of Boko Haram, turned against the group after his brother Sani was killed in 2023.

Since then, Gide has vowed to avenge his brother?s death and has worked to expel Boko Haram elements from his area of influence.

Gide?s recent operations have focused on the Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA) in Niger State, where he reportedly dismantled Boko Haram roadblocks along the Kuruba-Uduwa highway.

Addressing local communities, Gide pleaded for forgiveness and pledged to restore normalcy, encouraging displaced villagers to return home.

According to Makama, observers believe Gide?s actions are driven by a combination of personal vendettas and a desire to consolidate control over lucrative criminal enterprises, such as cattle rustling and kidnapping, in the region.

?The dynamics in Nigeria?s North-West are increasingly influenced by the infiltration of Boko Haram and its splinter groups, such as Jama?atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda?awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) and Ansaru,? Makama explained.

?These groups operate alongside local bandit kingpins, forming temporary alliances and engaging in fierce competition for dominance.?

The security analyst said JAS factions, led by figures like Sadiku and Umar Taraba, maintain headquarters in Niger and Zamfara states and are reportedly proficient in manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

These factions, according to him, have expanded their operations into the North-West and North-Central regions, employing brutal tactics to enforce compliance and raise revenue through taxes on local populations.

Ansaru, on the other hand, has established a stronghold in Niger, Kogi, and Kaduna states, focusing on ideological propaganda and recruitment.

The group has maintained links with al-Qaeda-affiliated groups in the Sahel, raising concerns about the potential for regional spillover of extremist activities.

The rivalry between Gide and Boko Haram factions presents both opportunities and challenges for Nigeria?s security forces.

On one hand, internal conflicts among extremist groups could weaken their overall operational capacity.

On the other hand, the fluid alliances and shifting loyalties complicate intelligence gathering and counterterrorism operations.

?In conclusion, the ongoing conflict in Nigeria?s Northwest is a multifaceted crisis that requires a nuanced understanding of the local dynamics at play,? Makama said.

He, however, believes that Gide?s rise as a key player in the fight against Boko Haram signifies the complexities of power, revenge, and the quest for control in a region plagued by violence.

As the situation continues to unfold, Makama pointed out the need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of extremism and foster peace, adding that this remains paramount. (The Guardian: Text Excluding Headline)

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