The Nigerian Army says it is investigating reports that Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau has either died or was seriously injured during a clash with a splinter group, the Islamic State in West African Province (Iswap).
It’s not the first time Shekau has been reported killed. But the militant leader resurfaced each time.
Army spokesman Brig Gen Mohammed Yerima told the BBC that the army was still looking into what may have happened, but will not issue a statement until it gets definite proof.
One journalist with close links to security agencies has said that Shekau died when Iswap attacked Boko Haram positions in the Sambisa forest, north-east Nigeria.
The AFP news agency quotes two sources saying that Shekau survived his attempt to kill himself when he was surrounded.
Iswap has not commented.
Shekau took over Boko Haram after its founder Muhammad Yusuf was killed by police in 2009.
Since then, more than 40,000 people have been killed and over two million displaced from their homes in the deadly insurgency in north-east Nigeria.
Latest Stories
-
CHAN 2024Q: Ghana’s Black Galaxies kicked out after Nigeria defeat
2 hours -
CHAN 2025: Ghana misses out after defeat to Nigeria
2 hours -
Speaker Bagbin honoured with citation for exceptional leadership
2 hours -
Photos: They came, they bonded and had fun at Joy FM’s Party in the Park
2 hours -
No shipper using a port in Ghana should pay for delays – GSA
2 hours -
Bongo Naba appeals to Ya Na, Yagbonwura, others to intervene in Bawku crisis
2 hours -
I fell in love with Ghana during 2010 World Cup – Jeremie Frimpong
3 hours -
Appoint ‘brutal’ OPK as Whip – Carlos Ahenkorah urges NPP leadership
4 hours -
Ablakwa questions alleged GH₵60m transfer to presidency for ‘special operations’
5 hours -
Dame Judi reveals apple tribute to Maggie Smith
5 hours -
NDC rejects rerun in outstanding polling station in Dome Kwabenya
5 hours -
EC has the power to re-collate results – Ayikoi Otoo
6 hours -
Putin apologises for plane crash, without saying Russia at fault
6 hours -
Footage shows NY officers beating prisoner before death
6 hours -
AngloGold Ashanti equips mastercraft persons at Sanso with tools to train youth apprentices
6 hours