Boko Haram commander Ibrahim Bakoura Doro, also known as Abu Oumaimah, has publicly refuted claims by the Nigerien government that he was killed in recent military airstrikes in the Diffa region.
On August 15, the Nigerien Armed Forces launched precision strikes targeting insurgent strongholds in Korongol, Kournawa, and Shilawa.
The operation was hailed by Niger’s Head of State, Gen. Abdurahamane Tiani, as a major success, with Bakoura named among the high-ranking militants reportedly eliminated.
The military stated that the offensive destroyed Boko Haram bases and neutralised dozens of fighters. Bakoura, a key figure in the group’s leadership, was described as instrumental in efforts to destabilise the region.
However, in a twist that casts doubt on the official narrative, security sources intercepted a message on Saturday in which Bakoura denied being killed.
He acknowledged the airstrikes but insisted he survived, telling his commanders he saw reports of his death circulating online.
This isn’t the first time Bakoura has been declared dead. Analysts note that similar claims have surfaced in the past, often without independent verification.
