Security Forces Launch Manhunt As Lukarawa Violence Spreads Across Sokoto, Kebbi

Security Forces Launch Manhunt As Lukarawa Violence Spreads Across Sokoto, KebbiThe acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, visited the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army in Sokoto on Sunday as part of efforts to counter the growing threat of the Lukarawa terror group. This group, reportedly recruiting youths in Sokoto and Kebbi States, has been linked to extremist factions in Mali and Niger.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

During his visit, Oluyede ordered troops to intensify operations against Lukarawa, which has raised concerns in the northwestern region of Nigeria. The Defence Headquarters identified the group last week as one with jihadi affiliations, which has gained ground due to the political instability in neighboring Mali and Niger.

“This group’s emergence is directly tied to the instability in those countries, which has led to the spread of extremist elements into Nigeria,” explained Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations.

Oluyede spoke to local residents in the Masallaci community in Tangaza Local Government Area, urging them to provide timely and accurate information to assist the military in combating the group. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the military and the public to ensure national security.

“I am here to assess the troops and charge them to rise to the challenge. We need the support of the community; without it, we cannot succeed,” Oluyede said, underscoring that Nigeria’s prosperity depends on securing the country.

The acting COAS also met with the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, and other key stakeholders, including members of Operation FASAN YANMA, which has been deployed in Sokoto and Kebbi to combat the terror group. Oluyede visited several military posts in the region, including in Illela Local Government Area, and stressed the need for greater coordination among all security agencies.

Military sources confirmed that a signal had been received directing troops to proceed with clearance operations in troubled areas of Sokoto and Kebbi. “We are on top of the situation,” one officer assured. “Our mission is to remove Lukarawa from these areas and restore peace.”

Lukarawa, which has reportedly been active in the region for over six years, has been accused of imposing taxes, enforcing strict rules, and using violence to maintain control. In recent years, the group has grown closer to local towns, operating in Sokoto’s Tangaza, Gudu, and other local government areas.

Residents have reported that Lukarawa militants have clashed with bandits and even killed soldiers during attacks. However, there is now growing concern that the group may be collaborating with bandits to further destabilize the area.

A local source revealed that Lukarawa is offering financial incentives—up to N1 million—to entice young men to join their ranks. The group reportedly consists of militants from across Africa, including Mali, Niger, Chad, and Libya. They have been actively recruiting young people in Sokoto by offering substantial sums of money, further increasing the threat to regional security.

In one of their recent attacks, Lukarawa militants killed 15 locals in the Mera community of Kebbi State while also stealing cattle. The attack occurred shortly before Friday prayers, with the militants making off with at least 100 cattle. However, two members of the terror group were reportedly killed during the confrontation.

Despite the ongoing violence, some locals claimed that the group had originally been invited to help combat local bandits, though their role has since evolved into a much more militant one.

The Nigerian military continues its efforts to eliminate the threat posed by Lukarawa, with troops determined to restore peace and prevent further recruitment into the group.

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