Gumi And Shettima Split Over How Best To Address New Terror Group In The North

Gumi And Shettima Split Over How Best To Address New Terror Group In The NorthThe recent emergence of a new terrorist group, Lakurawa, in the Northwest states of Sokoto and Kebbi has escalated security concerns in Nigeria. Although the group’s operations were first identified in 2018 in the Gongono Forest in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State, it only gained widespread attention after its attack on Mera community in Kebbi State, which led to the deaths of about 15 people.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Lakurawa, which is linked to ISIS and operates in the Sahel region, has imposed taxes on local communities in Sokoto and set up bases in several areas. The group has been preaching anti-Western views and criticizing democratic governance. The Nigerian Defense Headquarters has confirmed that the group is exacerbating insecurity in the region and is affiliated with jihadi factions from neighboring Mali and Niger.

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s View:

Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi expressed his concerns about the group, attributing its formation to a fallout among herders and foreign militants collaborating with aggrieved locals. He warned against solely using force to address the issue, stressing the need for a deradicalization program and dialogue. Gumi suggested that with proper government support and engagement, it would be possible to prevent foreign terrorist influences and reintegrate local militants into society.

Yerima Shettima’s Call for Action:

On the other hand, Yerima Shettima, President of the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), urged the federal government to act decisively before Lakurawa becomes another Boko Haram. Shettima emphasized the importance of collaboration between security forces and local communities to dismantle the group’s network. While he commended the government’s efforts, he recommended applying a kinetic approach to swiftly defeat the group, arguing that community-based intelligence and security efforts were crucial in combating the threat.

Both Gumi and Shettima agree that the issue requires urgent attention, though they differ on the approach—Gumi favors dialogue and rehabilitation, while Shettima advocates for a more direct military response.

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