The Nigerian Acting Chief of the Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has arrived in Sokoto for his first operational visit to the 8th Division’s Area of Responsibility.
In the North-Western state, he is expected to visit the Sultan of Sokoto and meet with other key stakeholders within the 8th Division’s Area of Responsibility.
He will also take the opportunity to address troops of Operation Fasan Yamma, who are engaged in counter-terrorism efforts in the north-western region.
Oluyede’s visit follows the Defence Headquarters’ recent confirmation of a new terror group, identified as ‘Lukurawa,’ emerging in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
Five local government areas in Sokoto state are currently facing challenges due to this new terror group, known as the Lakurawa.
Major General Edward Buba of Defence Media Operations stated that the new group is contributing to insecurity in the North-West, but the Nigerian Armed Forces are actively working to contain them.
“Our troops are facing a new terrorist sect in the North-West, called the Lakurawa, affiliated with terrorist groups in the Sahel, particularly from Mali and the Republic of Niger.
“The group began incursions into the northern part of Nigeria, especially in Sokoto and Kebbi states, originating from the Niger-Mali axis,” General Buba explained.
He added that the Lakurawa group emerged from Mali and the Republic of Niger following the coup that disrupted military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger.
Additionally, the military has declared nine terrorists wanted for their involvement in the ongoing security challenges in the region.