Nigerian terrorist group Boko Haram appears to be adopting the symbolism and methods of the Islamic State (IS), according to some experts.
Both groups aspire to create an extremist Sunni Muslim regime across their respective territories, and are willing to do so by any means necessary.
Both ideologies believe that the End of Days are approaching, and some fear that the smaller, less powerful Boko Haram will pledge allegiance to IS.
CNN international news reporter Tim Lister noted that in the last six months, the Nigerian militants have increasingly adopted beheadings and stonings as their execution methods of choice, and have utilised social media with more sophistication.
Even their video production style and the angles of video shots has been compared to Islamic State productions.
Afriqiyah Media, which disseminates propaganda from African extremist groups, has already pledged its loyalty to IS.
"We give you glad tidings that the group's Shurah Council is at the stage of consulting and studying, and we will let you know soon the group's decision in respect to pledging allegiance to the Caliph of the Muslims Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, may Allah preserve him," the site tweeted earlier this month, according to translation by SITE Intelligence.
African and Eurasian Affairs analyst Jacob Zenn said that it is clear Boko Haram follows IS closely, but a true alliance remains to be seen.
"It is possible that due to factions within Boko Haram the shura was unable to come to an agreement at this point," he explained to CNN.
"Despite this, it's clear Boko Haram is leaning toward ISIS in terms of doctrine, ideology and an emphasis on holding territory after operations."
The Nigerian group had referred to itself as a caliphate, the "Islamic State in Africa," and the "Islamic State in West Africa."
