The perceived division among the ranks of Boko Haram appears to deepen as reports filtering in suggest that the alleged recent execution of 3 key commanders of the terrorist group among which is the son of late Muhammed Yusuf, who was the spiritual leader of the group in Nigeria may have ignited fresh leadership tussle among the ranks of the terrorist group.
The reports which suggest a deepening internal wrangle occasioned by alleged killing of Ba'a Idirisa, Muhammad Shuwa, and Abu – Mossad Albarnawee on February 9, 2020, have also indicated major plot to execute the Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shakau over growing mistrust and struggle for supremacy.
According to a source close to some repented Boko Haram Commanders, the death of Ba'a Idrisa, son of the late founder of the sect has deepened the crisis, suspicion and distrust in Boko haram and in Shekau’s camp as his loyalists have vowed to rebel. Idrissa, according to source was perceived to be "driving an idea" of being too soft, which may be the reason for his execution. There is source information also that communication between Idirisa and a humanitarian organisation was intercepted and the late insurgent leader was overheard advocating for peace.
It was gathered that some of the fighters have reportedly accused their leaders of misleading them. Many of Boko Haram and ISWAP Commanders have been killed as a result of infighting among the insurgents. Shekau has been accused of being averse to his immoderate lust for raping young women and under-aged girls including those married to his fellow jihadists fighters. His penchant for the use of female children for suicide bombings has been the principal driving force for hatred towards him.
