ISWAP leader linked to Shekau’s killing eliminated during military operation

 

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have reportedly neutralised Bako Gorgore, a top commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Zagazola, a counter-insurgency expert who focuses on developments in the Lake Chad region, said Gorgore — also known as Abou Mustapha — died during a clash with troops in Kukawa Local Government of Borno state.

According to the report, his death was confirmed through several intelligence sources after security operatives intercepted internal communications among ISWAP fighters acknowledging the incident.

Gorgore, believed to be around 60 years old, was considered one of the group’s longest-serving operatives.

Over the years, he reportedly occupied a number of strategic roles within ISWAP, including serving as a senior member of the organisation’s Shura council, its highest decision-making body.

In 2022, he was previously reported dead alongside Aba Ibrahim, another senior figure within the insurgent group.

In May 2021, Gorgore and Ibrahim led a major onslaught against the faction of Boko Haram known as Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS).

The offensive culminated in the death of Abubakar Shekau, the longtime leader of the faction. Seventeen of Shekau’s commanders subsequently surrendered and pledged allegiance to ISWAP.

Zagazola said Gorgore’s death could have significant implications for the leadership structure of the group.

“The confirmed killing of Gorgore could have important implications for the leadership cohesion of ISWAP. As a senior Shura member with deep operational experience dating back to the early Boko Haram years, his removal potentially disrupts command continuity within the group,” it said.

“The insurgency in the Lake Chad region has historically depended on experienced commanders capable of navigating the complex terrain and maintaining loyalty among fighters.

“The death of a veteran figure like Gorgore weakens institutional memory within the insurgent network and may also trigger internal power struggles as younger commanders compete to fill the vacuum.”