The Nigerian military has officially confirmed the presence of the Lakurawa terrorist group in Sokoto and Kebbi states. Here are some quick facts about the group:
- Emergence of Lakurawa Linked to Niger Coup
The group reportedly entered Nigeria following a military coup in Niger, exploiting a gap in cross-border cooperation. - Cross-Border Incursions from Niger and Mali
Lakurawa terrorists have been infiltrating Sokoto and Kebbi from neighboring Niger and Mali. - Initial Border Security Breakdowns
Prior to the coup in Niger, joint Nigerian-Nigerien border operations helped keep terrorist activities in check. - Exploitation of Local Support and Terrain
The group took advantage of both difficult terrains and local support in under-governed areas to spread their ideology. - Locals’ Initial Trust in Lakurawa
Local communities initially welcomed the group, mistakenly thinking it would help secure their region. - Nine Terrorist Commanders Declared Wanted
The military has announced nine terrorist leaders from the North East as wanted individuals, including names like Abu Khadijah and Abu Yusuf. - Containment Efforts in Place
Joint security forces have been actively working to keep the Lakurawa sect at bay in northern regions. - Ongoing Surveillance and Intelligence Efforts
Military forces continue to conduct Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) to monitor and contain the threat. - Vast Uncontrolled Areas Provide Hiding Spots
The group utilises under-governed areas as hideouts, evading the military while intimidating locals. - Camps of Lakurawa
Lakurawa is a cross-border group with members from Libya, Mali, and Niger, now hiding in Tsauni forest across Sokoto and Kebbi State. - Militant Links to Regional Conflicts
Members of Lakurawa have previously fought in Libya and Mali, joining Nigeria’s insurgency with similar ideologies to Boko Haram. - Lakurawa Invited to Combat Bandits
Initially invited by locals in 2018 to repel bandits, the group later imposed their own rules on the community. - Sharia Law and Enforced Taxes
Lakurawa imposed strict religious laws on nearby villages, forcing communities to follow religious practices like paying zakat. - Infiltration through Marriages and Language
Members built ties with natives through marriage and shared Fulfulde language, promoting their ideology among local youth. - Attempts to Disband the Sect
Authorities persuaded Lakurawa members to leave the area in 2019, but they returned years later, establishing a more permanent base in Tsauni forest.