The National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Major General Adamu Laka, has reassured Nigerians that the emerging terrorist group, Lakurawa, which has recently caused unrest in Sokoto State and parts of the North West, poses no significant threat due to its limited membership, estimated at fewer than 200 individuals.
Speaking on the situation, Major General Laka stated that the military and other security agencies, under the coordination of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, are actively addressing the group and that plans are in motion to eliminate their presence completely.
“It is true that a new wave of threats by the Lakurawa has emerged,” Laka said. “But together, through strategic actions and unwavering public support, we can confront and overcome these threats.”
Coordinated Military Action
Laka disclosed that since the group’s emergence, key security leaders, including the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, and other service chiefs, have held several high-level meetings to develop informed strategies for dealing with Lakurawa and similar threats. Concrete measures are being implemented to ensure the safety of communities in Sokoto and across the nation.
“The group’s tactics involve exploiting technology and spreading fear to disrupt lives and communities. However, with a united front and strategic military action, they will be neutralized in no distant time,” Laka added.
Origins of Lakurawa
General Laka explained that the group initially gained a foothold in the region when local residents, seeking protection from bandits, invited them to provide security. However, after a period, the group began imposing taxes and other controls, actions that are unacceptable in a sovereign nation.
“The NSA is on top of the situation. President Bola Tinubu is providing all necessary resources to security agencies to root out terrorists and defeat insecurity,” he said.
Public Reassurance
Laka urged Nigerians to remain calm and not succumb to the fear the group aims to instill. “Their numbers are small, between 150 to 200 individuals, and the situation is not as dire as it is being perceived. The main weapon of this terrorist group is fear, and Nigerians must not allow themselves to fall victim to their psychological tactics,” he emphasized.
The government and security forces are committed to ensuring the safety and sovereignty of the nation, with ongoing operations designed to eliminate the threat posed by Lakurawa and other extremist groups.
