The group has claimed responsibility for some daring attacks in Nigeria. Last Monday, Ansaru, a hitherto little-known sect stunned the international community when it announced responsibility for the kidnap of seven foreigners in Bauchi, North-East Nigeria. Here are five quick things you need to know about the group.
Started: Ansaru was formed in January 2012. It announced its presence through a video, released in January 2012. Identity/Agenda: Its full name (in Arabic) is Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina Fi Bidalis Sudan. This translates to “Vanguards for the Protection of Muslims in Black Africa.” The group claims it is fighting to reclaim “the lost dignity of Muslims of black Africa” and to create an Islamic caliphate covering Niger Republic, Cameroon, and Northern Nigeria. Analysts suspect Ansaru is an offshoot of Boko Haram.
