Nigeria, March 1 -- From a small group of fighters that first showed their faces observing Eid prayers in a propaganda video around 2020 in Niger State, north-central Nigeria, Jama'tu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'awati wal-Jihad (JAS), otherwise known as Boko Haram, has now expanded significantly in the state under the leadership of Mallam Sadiku, with four camps operating closely in the fringes of Alawa forest reserve. These camps are notorious for heinous crimes, including forced labour, child marriages and other atrocities, insiders, including minors conscripted into the group, told PREMIUM TIMES.

Mr Sadiku, a Fulani JAS commander, was sent to the North-west by late Abubakar Shekau to raise money for JAS through kidnappings and cattle rustling, ...