Fresh intelligence suggests growing anxiety within suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) ranks, as fighters express concern over the safety of their families following recent air operations in Sambisa Forest.
In a post on X, security analyst and counter insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, disclosed that according to security sources, the apprehension followed precision strikes carried out by Nigerian Air Force components under Operation Hadin Kai on insurgent positions in the Sambisa axis of Borno State.
Intercepted communications revealed frustration among fighters, including one identified as Shettima operating along the Maiduguri–Mafa road, who complained about delayed and conflicting reports on the impact of the strikes and the fate of relatives.
Another associate, Abu Fatima, was quoted as saying senior commanders had restricted the flow of information on casualties and operations, warning fighters against sharing such details with families to avoid sanctions, even as some relatives were reportedly located away from targeted sites during the bombardment.
Sources indicated that the strikes caused casualties and injuries among fighters, with some victims receiving treatment within insurgent enclaves while others suffered severe wounds, including amputations.
Analysts say the development highlights mounting psychological pressure within ISWAP, as sustained air operations continue to erode morale, disrupt cohesion, and deepen mistrust between field fighters and commanders over poor communication and uncertainty surrounding the safety of their families.
