The Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) which is waging war against the government of Iraq and Syria to turn the Middle East into a caliphate through Jihad, is reported to be strengthening its ties with Boko Haram. Boko Haram is another extremist militant group fighting to overthrow the government and construct an Islamic state in Africa. It is believed that ISIS is offering help and advice to these terrorists regarding their construction of an African caliphate.
The relationship between these two major terrorist groups seemed merely symbolic, but The Independent noted that they had now developed a “practical relationship” exchanging advice regarding strategies and tactics. Because the U.S. and the rest of the international community was devoting so much attention to ISIS (also referred to as ISIL), Boko Haram had continued to thrive in Nigeria relatively unnoticed since earlier in the previous year.
Similar to the situation in the Middle East, the Christians and even Muslims of Nigeria are being heavily oppressed and persecuted by the militants. Boko Haram fighters are using similar tactics as ISIS in that they occupy towns that are often heavily populated with Christians instead of incorporating more traditional guerilla warfare. The organization was fighting against the Nigerian government since 2009, but normally only took control over government facilities and buildings.
Christian leaders working both in and outside Africa have noted that the atrocities of these terrorists should not go unnoticed. Fr. Patrick Tor Alumuku is one such Christian leader who tried to let the world know of what Boko Haram is doing in northern Nigeria, where the conflict is worst. He said, "Boko Haram is determined to eliminate every sign of Christian presence and many churches have been destroyed or torched. Last week in a village in the area of Maiduguri, Boko Haram took over the parish for its local headquarters."
In August, the terrorist organization captured the town of Gwoza in northern Nigeria. Their leader, Abubakar Shekau declared the establishment of a caliphate there. At the time, he released a video that showed the execution of prisoners and him declaring, "Thanks be to Allah who gave victory to our brethren in (the town of) Gwoza and made it part of the Islamic caliphate."
The governments and militaries of Nigeria and Cameroon are actively engaging with Boko Haram militants and have produced hopeful results. However, thousands of Christians and Muslims are on the run from their homes away from the terrorists.
