Wanted ISIS leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuk killed in counterterrorism operation

By Egena Sunday Ode

President Bola Tinubu confirmed early Saturday morning that wanted ISIS senior leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Munak, was killed over the night in a joint counterterrorism operation undertaken by the Nigerian Armed Forces and their United States counterpart.

A statement personally signed by President Tinubu said the ISIS leader was killed along with several of his lieutenants during a strike on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin.

Tinubu expressed appreciations to President Donald Trump for the feat, saying he looked forward to more precise strikes against all terrorist enclaves in Nigeria.

The statement by President Tinubu reads: “Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism.

“Our determined Nigerian Armed Forces, working closely with the Armed Forces of the United States, conducted a daring joint operation that dealt a heavy blow to the ranks of the Islamic State.

“Early assessments confirm the elimination of the wanted IS senior leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, along with several of his lieutenants, during a strike on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin

“Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives. I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort.

“I commend the personnel involved on both sides for their professionalism and courage, and I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation.”