ISIS Appoints New Leader For Boko Haram

BBC has reported that the Islamic State (ISIS) has appointed a new leader for Boko Haram, its branch in West Africa.

Accoring to BBC, ISIS announced the appointment in one of its magazines.

Abu Musab al-Barnawi, a former Boko Haram’s spokesperson, is said to have replaced Abubakar Shekau, who became the leader of Boko Haram in 2009.

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Abubakar Shekau

The replacement comes after rumours spread that Shekau had been killed or replaced as the leader. He has not made a verified video appearance for the past year.

In March 2016, Boko Haram released a video featuring Shekau. However, the unusual poor quality of the footage raised suspicions over its authenticity.

Furthermore, the video was only shared on YouTube, rather than on Twitter accounts affiliated with Boko Haram’s ally, ISIS.

The Nigerian Army has successfully downsized the operational territory of Boko Haram. Also repelling attacks from the militant group.

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