Mahmouda: Identity Of Boko Haram Commander In Kwara Revealed

Contrary to recent reports circulating on social and traditional media suggesting the emergence of a new terrorist organization in Kwara State, Mahmouda, security sources have clarified that it is not a name of a new terrorist group but rather a known Boko Haram commander.

Mahmouda is said to be a veteran Boko Haram fighter who initially operated in Borno State before relocating to Kaduna, where he briefly collaborated with the notorious terror kingpin, Sadiku.

He later moved into the Shiroro and Rafi axis of Niger State, where he aligned with the remnants of Darul Salam, recruiting dozens of youths and enforcing extremist laws particularly on Fulani herdsmen.

Security intelligence confirms that Mahmouda has since moved some of his fighters further southwest into the forests bordering Kwara State, where he has established ties with local bandit groups.

These elements are not a new organization but are extensions of Boko Haram collaborating with bandits already operating in the North West.

This clarification comes in the wake of past denials from security agencies.

When intelligence analyst Zagazola Makama previously raised the alarm about the movement of terrorists toward Kwara, the Police issued a rebuttal, describing the report as fear-mongering.

However, with recent attacks and the presence of insurgent elements now being confirmed in parts of Kwara, observers are questioning the responsiveness and preparedness of authorities.

“What will the Police say now that the very thing they denied has begun to happen?” a senior security source queried.

Authorities are now being urged to act swiftly and decisively to prevent Mahmouda and his collaborators from entrenching themselves in the North Central corridor.

Analysts warn that failing to address this threat early could result in Kwara becoming another flashpoint in Nigeria’s protracted insurgency.

Security agencies have been advised to increase intelligence operations, deploy special forces, and establish a proactive counter-insurgency presence in border forests between Niger and Kwara states to neutralize the threat before it escalates.