Suspense As ISIS Names New Boko Haram Leader

The world’s number one Islamic terrorist group, ISIS has named a new leader for Boko Haram to replace Abubakar Shekau. The new leader, according to ISIS, is Abu Musab al-Barnawi, who functioned as spokesman for Boko Haram under Shekau.

The development reported by the BBC as being contained in the latest edition of ISIS’ magazine, underlines the alliance between the two terrorist organisations. It also further confirms Boko Haram’s claim of allegiance to ISIS. Even more significant is the reference by ISIS to Boko Haram as its West African branch.

With the announcement of a new Boko Haram leader, the question many people in Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger and Chad will be asking is: “Where is Abubakar Shekau?” Arising out of their question would be two others: ‘Is he dead?’ ‘Or, is he leading a separate faction of Boko Haram other than that recognised by ISIS?’