New Details: Herdsmen Allegedly Invited Lakurawa Terrorist Group to Sokoto
A new terrorist group, Lakurawa, has reportedly taken root in Sokoto, allegedly invited by local herdsmen for protection against banditry. The group, composed of militants from Mali, Niger, Libya, and Algeria, is believed to have begun operations in Gongono Forest, Tangaza Local Government Area, as far back as 2018.
The Rise of Lakurawa in Sokoto
According to local sources, this group was initially welcomed by herdsmen seeking defense against frequent bandit attacks. However, Lakurawa soon imposed strict rules aligned with Islamic ideology, enforcing a tax (Zakkat) on livestock, mandatory hijabs for women, and a ban on smoking and drinking.
Local and Federal Responses
The presence of the group has escalated tensions in Sokoto. Sani Alhaji Yakubu, a National Assembly member, urged military intervention to reclaim the forests dominated by Lakurawa and allied local bandits. Major-General Edward Buba from Defence Headquarters recently confirmed the group’s connection to ISIS, raising alarm about their activities in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
Tragic Incidents
The group has been linked to violence, including the beheading of the District Head of Balle, in Gudu Local Government. Local and federal leaders continue to call for increased military resources to counter the threat in affected communities.
