Lakurawa: Rising threat and diverging views on Nigeria’s security tactics, by Victor Itodo Abuh
The emergence of a new terrorist group in Nigeria’s Northwest, known as Lakurawa, has intensified the insecurity situation in a region already struggling with insurgency. Operating primarily in Sokoto and Kebbi states, Lakurawa first appeared in 2018 within the dense expanse of Gongono Forest in Tangaza Local Government Area, Sokoto State.
Recent events, including a violent assault on the Mera community in Kebbi State’s Augie Local Government Area, which claimed at least 15 lives, have heightened public and government concern.
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed Lakurawa’s links to ISIS and jihadist factions in Mali and Niger. Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, explained, “The emergence of the group is linked to political instability in Mali and Niger, which has fuelled the spread of extremist elements into Nigeria.”
These transnational connections have emboldened the group, enabling them to impose taxes on local communities, set up operational bases, and spread anti-Western ideologies while decrying democratic governance.
Gumi’s Perspective: Advocating for Dialogue
Renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has offered his perspective on the Lakurawa crisis, attributing the group’s rise to deeper socio-economic issues among herders and the influence of foreign jihadists. Cautioning against an overly forceful military response, Gumi argued for a comprehensive approach, saying, “Dealing with terror is a big task, it’s more than just kinetic; you have to deradicalise people and change their psychic.”
Gumi’s emphasis is on avoiding alienation of local herders, who may be drawn into alliances with extremist elements. He added, “From what I read, it’s an infiltration of foreign terrorists coming in to collaborate with the aggrieved herdsmen. There is no need to put much pressure on them to the extent that they would bring in collaborators.”
Read also: Troops launch manhunt as Lakurawa rampages in Sokoto, Kebbi
The scholar also expressed his readiness to mediate discussions with Lakurawa, contingent on government support.
Shettima’s Urgency: The Case for Kinetic Force
In contrast, Yerima Shettima, President of the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, has called for swift and decisive action to prevent Lakurawa from becoming as entrenched as Boko Haram. Stressing the necessity for robust military intervention, Shettima stated, “There is no reason to sit down and talk with anybody at this critical period because I think the kinetic approach should be applied.”
Shettima highlighted the importance of community collaboration in bolstering security efforts, noting, “The security forces without the cooperation of the people within can’t get it right, call it community policing or vigilante – they need to work together to complement the efforts of the security forces because all hands must be on deck.”
He expressed optimism about the current government’s commitment, pointing out the proactive steps already taken, such as the visit by the acting Chief of Army Staff to Sokoto.
The contrasting views between Gumi and Shettima reflect the dual paths Nigeria faces in addressing the Lakurawa insurgency: a strategy of dialogue and social rehabilitation versus decisive military action. While Gumi warns against the alienation that can come from heavy-handed force, Shettima emphasizes the need for immediate and forceful measures to prevent Lakurawa from replicating the prolonged devastation caused by Boko Haram.
The government’s approach, balancing military engagement with social interventions and community partnerships, will be crucial in determining whether Lakurawa’s foothold deepens or dissipates. As the nation struggles with these complex decisions, the outcome will undoubtedly shape Nigeria’s security and stability for years to come.
Victor is a young journalist based in Abuja and can be reached via victorabuh84@gmail.com 08126285255
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