The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has deployed a Special Operations Brigade to Sokoto and Kebbi States as part of ongoing efforts to eradicate the Lakurawa Sect from the region. This deployment is in line with ongoing military operations targeting the self-proclaimed jihadist group operating in these northwest states.
In a statement issued in Sokoto, the military emphasized that the deployment aims to build on the significant successes of Operation Forest Sanity III, which is focused on driving out the Lakurawa Sect, under the operation code-named “Chase Lakurawas Out.”
On Friday, Brigadier General Ibikunle Ajose, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Sector 2, Operation Fasan Yamma, addressed the troops. He conveyed the directives of Theatre Commander Major General Oluyinka Soyele, instructing the troops to ensure the complete dismantling of the Lakurawa Sect in Sokoto and Kebbi.
Brigadier General Ajose urged the troops to adhere strictly to the rules of engagement, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the lives and property of law-abiding citizens. He also highlighted the strategic selection and specialized training of the Special Operations Brigade, expressing confidence in their professionalism and capability to successfully complete the mission. “Nigerians are counting on your ability to flush out the sect and restore peace,” he said.
The GOC also outlined the precursor operations carried out by troops of the 8 Division under Operation Fasan Yamma. These operations targeted forest hideouts and enclaves in areas such as Rumji Dutse, Sarma, Tsauna, Bauni, Malgatawa, Gargao, Magara, Kaideji, Nakuru, Sama, Sanyinna, Kadidda, Kolo, and Dancha Villages, across Illela, Tangaza, and Binji Local Government Areas.
As a result of these efforts, 22 sect camps have been destroyed, several sect members neutralized, and a significant cache of weapons recovered, including four rifles, 409 rounds of PKT 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and 94 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
