A fugitive radical preacher Ahmad al-Assir, also referred to as an “ISIS leader”, was over the weekend arrested at a Lebanese airport while attempting to flee to Nigeria using fake travel documents.

The story generated multiple reactions, fears and allegations among Nigerians who still remember the dangerous claim made by Boko Haram earlier this year. Recall that the dreaded sect pledged allegiance with the richest and one of the most powerful terrorist groups in the world: Islamic State (ISIS).
The recent development has revived these fears, which were confirmed by a source who disclosed:

“We are worried because Boko Haram has pledged loyalty to ISIS. And the botched trip of al-Assir is reawakening because it has confirmed Boko Haram’s claim.”

We have gathered the most notable facts about al-Assir, his criminal activities and allegations posed against him, and about the situation in general. Specifically, we ask what he has to do with ISIS.

1. Who is al-Assir and why was he declared wanted?

Two years ago he was a charismatic preacher vigorously speaking against Hezbollah (the military organization and political party dominating Lebanese affairs), which sought to limit his influence in the country. His followers often had clashes with Hezbollah proxies. In June 2013 al-Assir’s followers were involved in a gunfight at an army checkpoint and killed at least 18 soldiers.

The army insisted the bloody clash had started with the provocation of the cleric’s supporters at the site.

2. Disappearance and charges

Following the incident he mysteriously disappeared leaving his forces on the verge of defeat.

The Lebanese military judge accused al-Assir of having formed armed groups that attacked an institution of the state, the army, killed officers and soldiers, took explosive materials and light and heavy weapons and used them against the army. Military prosecutors sought the death penalty for him.

3. Purported links with ISIS

It is believed that the preacher has ties with the group. The information is, however, unconfirmed. He was once referred to as the “emir” of the ISIS branch in Lebanon.

Interestingly, it is mostly the Nigerian sources that headlined the story using the “ISIS leader”.

Sai Buhari, Thanks For Inviting ISIS Leader – People React To Story Of Fugitive Preacher Who Tried To Flee To Nigeria

4. Two years later, he tried to flee, unsuccessfully

The cleric not only obtained a fake passport, but also changed his look in an attempt to board a plane in Beirut en route to Nigeria. However, the plan was uncovered.
Source: https://www.naij.com/524617-isis-leader-saga-top-10-must-know-facts.html

Ftc I dedicate this achievement to all my nairaland fans and beyond! However, this niqqa is a fool