Abu Umaimata
Abu Umaimata is a militant who is the leader of Boko Haram, an Islamist militant group involved in an insurgency against Nigeria and other states.
Abu Umaimata | |
|---|---|
| Born | Nigeria |
| Allegiance | Boko Haram (?–present) |
| Rank | Leader (2022–present) |
| Battles/wars | Boko Haram insurgency |
Biography
Abu Umaimata's origin and background are unclear. His birth date is not known for sure, but he is believed to be from Nigeria. When the previous leader of Boko Haram, Abubakar Shekau, was killed in the battle of Sambisa Forest of 2021, the group splintered with several sub-commanders taking charge. The most important ones were Bakura Doro and Bakura Sahalaba, one of whom may be "Abu Umaimata", though this remains uncertain.[1] On 2 May 2022, Boko Haram published a video declaring Abu Umaimata its new overall leader.[1][2] Under Abu Umaimata, Boko Haram continued to fight both the regional government as well as its jihadist rival, the Islamic State's West Africa Province.[1]
References
- Zenn (2022).
- "Boko Haram – Video Announcement of Abu Umaimata as New Leader for Brothers in Niger, Lake Chad, and the Mountains (Gwoza/Mandara) – May 2, 2022". Unmasking Boko Haram: Exploring Global Jihad in Nigeria. 7 May 2022. Retrieved 6 August 2023.
Works cited
- Zenn, Jacob (6 June 2022). "Boko Haram Pledges Loyalty to Mysterious New Leader: Abu Umaimata". Militant Leadership Monitor. Jamestown Foundation. 13 (5).