Boko Haram commander Ibrahim Bakoura Doro, also known as Abu Oumaimah, says he lost fighters in an attack by forces of Niger Republic today Friday but that he escaped death
He was reacting to reports by the Nigerien government that he was killed during recent military operations in the Diffa region.
The Nigerien Armed Forces had claimed on Friday that Bakoura was among several insurgent leaders eliminated in precision airstrikes on August 15 in Korongol, Kournawa and Shilawa.
The military said the strikes destroyed Boko Haram bases, neutralised dozens of fighters and killed high-ranking commanders, including Bakoura.
Niger’s Head of State, Gen. Abdurahamane Tiani, hailed the operation as a major breakthrough, describing Bakoura as a central figure in efforts to destabilise the country.
However, security sources on Saturday intercepted a communication in which Bakoura dismissed reports of his death.
He reportedly told his commanders that although the airstrikes occurred, he was not among those killed.
