Northern Instability: Another Militant Organization Rises

Northern Instability: Another Militant Organization Rises

The Sokoto State Government has raised alarms about the emergence of a new terrorist group in the region, known as LAKURAWAS. This warning was issued by the State Deputy Governor, Idris Gobir, during a meeting with participants from Course 33 of the National Defence College in Abuja, who were visiting Sokoto for a study tour.

Gobir elaborated that LAKURAWAS operates under a religious ideology and is armed with sophisticated weaponry. “Our assessment indicates that LAKURAWAS is currently active in approximately five local government areas within the state,” he said.

The Deputy Governor expressed deep concern over the rising threat, particularly as Sokoto is already facing significant challenges from widespread banditry. He remarked, “The threat is expanding,” and reassured that security agencies are making concerted efforts to combat this new danger.

Gobir emphasized the state’s ongoing collaboration with federal security forces to protect lives and property. He outlined various measures the state government has implemented to tackle these security issues, expressing hope that the insights gained from the National Defence College’s study tour would assist authorities in understanding the evolving threats and formulating effective strategies to maintain peace.

Air Vice Marshal Titus Zuwahu Dauda, head of the visiting delegation, provided context on the college, which was established in 1992 as Nigeria’s foremost military institution. He explained that the college prepares military, police, and strategic agency officers for high-level responsibilities, having graduated 2,982 participants, including representatives from 30 African and Asian nations.

At the conclusion of the tour, Dauda stated that the team would compile both oral and written reports detailing their observations and recommendations for enhancing security in the state.