Confusion has reportedly erupted within a faction of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) after a senior commander was allegedly killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by members of his own group in Borno State.

Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred on February 24 in the Lake Chad Basin axis, an area where insurgent factions remain active. The explosion is said to have heightened tension and mistrust among fighters within the camp.

According to the sources, the commander, identified as Amir Musa, was confronted by a unit intelligence member (UIM) who demanded clarification over the deaths of two fighters, Abu Nazir and Abu Kasim.

Abu Kasim, described as a top commander, reportedly died after an IED planted by his faction detonated along a route where he was operating. The blast occurred during clashes between ISWAP and rival Boko Haram elements in the area.

Sources further revealed that Abu Nazir was allegedly killed by fellow ISWAP members after an encounter with Boko Haram fighters believed to have been responsible for Abu Kasim’s earlier death.

The sequence of incidents has reportedly sparked accusations of friendly fire, operational lapses, and a breakdown in coordination within the insurgent ranks.

The development highlights the ongoing rivalry between ISWAP and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), widely known as Boko Haram, despite both groups emerging from the same insurgent movement.

Security analysts believe the internal rifts could weaken the operational cohesion of the factions as Nigerian security forces intensify sustained offensives against terrorist strongholds across the North-East.