In response to growing security concerns, the Nigerian Government has pledged to deploy additional military personnel and resources to combat the Lakurawa sect, a terrorist group that has recently expanded its activities beyond its traditional strongholds in Sokoto and Kebbi states into Niger and Kaduna states.
The development follows a series of attacks, including a deadly assault on Mera village in Kebbi State on November 8, in which 17 residents were killed and dozens of cattle rustled. Sokoto State officials have expressed deep concern for the safety of residents, with security now topping the state’s agenda. The Special Adviser on Security Matters to Governor Ahmad Aliyu, Col. Ahmed Usman (retd.), confirmed that the Nigerian Government has committed to enhancing security efforts, including the establishment of more military formations in Sokoto and the deployment of additional troops and equipment to the region.
Usman highlighted that the state government has already taken steps to bolster security infrastructure by providing facilities for the air component of Operation ‘Fansan Yamma’ to ensure faster response times in emergencies. Furthermore, additional Forward Operation Bases (FOBs) and surveillance systems are being put in place to improve monitoring and intelligence gathering in the region.
“The state government has strengthened partnerships with federal security agencies to ensure a coordinated approach to tackling security challenges,” Usman stated. He also emphasized that Sokoto’s state-owned security outfit, the Sokoto State Community Guards, has been equipped to support conventional security forces in intelligence gathering and other security operations.
The Nigerian Government has assured that the military’s offensive against the Lakurawa sect is already yielding results, with Defense Minister Muhammad Abubakar confirming that several hideouts of the group have been bombarded by the Air Force, forcing the terrorists to flee. The minister also reiterated that the armed forces are fully committed to eradicating the sect and restoring peace to affected areas.
While security forces continue to take aggressive action, local officials have also underscored the importance of a collaborative approach. Niger State’s Commissioner for Homeland Security, Mohammed Bello, noted that neighboring states are working together with the Nigerian Government to eliminate the terrorist group. “More than two or three states are putting resources together to see that things are being done to eradicate the problem,” Bello said, expressing confidence that the situation would improve within days.
In Kebbi State, the government has also supported military operations by providing logistical assistance, including vehicles to enhance troop mobility. Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Zuru, confirmed that discussions are ongoing with the Chief of Defense Staff to ensure that military presence in the region remains permanent to prevent future attacks.
The increasing presence of the sect has sparked fears, particularly in communities bordering neighboring countries. Local leaders, including district heads in affected areas, have called for a permanent military presence to monitor borders and ensure the region’s security. The District Head of Gagi in Sokoto, Sani Jabi, suggested that while a kinetic approach was necessary, dialogue with the group could also help achieve a peaceful resolution. He warned, however, that any attack on the sect could have severe consequences, emphasizing the need for long-term security commitments to prevent further violence.
In Mera village, where recent attacks have left residents on edge, local leaders have expressed relief following the deployment of military forces. “We can categorically tell you that the situation has improved. Our farmers can now access their farms unlike when the incident happened,” said Umaru Bauji, speaking on behalf of the District Head of Mera. However, the community remains apprehensive and is calling on the government to maintain the military presence in the area to prevent any resurgence of attacks.
As the Nigerian Government continues to ramp up efforts to address the threat posed by the Lakurawa sect, local communities remain hopeful but cautious, advocating for sustained military presence and enhanced intelligence-gathering to protect their people from further terrorist activities.
