The Federal Government has officially declared Nigeria free from the Lakurawa terrorist group following a decisive military offensive that forced the group to retreat back to Mali. This significant announcement was made by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, during a press briefing on Sunday in Gusau, Zamfara State....Read Full Article >>➤
A Milestone in Nigeria’s Fight Against Terrorism
Minister Matawalle affirmed that the military’s robust operations dismantled the terrorist group’s networks, leaving no trace of their presence on Nigerian soil.
“I want to make it clear that we have no Lakurawa in any part of the country, not even in Zamfara or Kebbi State,” Matawalle stated. He emphasized that the group, which originated from Mali, has been entirely expelled and no longer poses a threat to national security.
Countering Conflicting Reports
The Minister’s announcement comes in response to recent claims by Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Shehu Dalijan, who linked the Lakurawa group to a string of explosive attacks in the region. Matawalle dismissed these assertions, stating that any acts of violence in the area were perpetrated by unrelated criminal elements, not the Lakurawa terrorists.
“The Lakurawa terrorists were never firmly established in Nigeria. Their presence here was temporary, and now they’ve been driven out completely,” he said, reiterating the military’s success in neutralizing the group’s activities.
Who Are the Lakurawa Terrorists?
The Lakurawa group first emerged in Sokoto State in 2016, initially presenting itself as a militia aimed at combating banditry. However, the group quickly evolved into a radical sect, enforcing strict religious laws and recruiting vulnerable youths with promises of financial incentives.
Over the years, their violent activities escalated, leading to deadly raids and bombings across northwestern Nigeria. One of their most notorious attacks occurred in November 2024 in the Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State, where dozens of lives were lost.
The Military Offensive That Changed the Game
The Nigerian military’s recent campaign targeted the Lakurawa group’s hideouts, effectively dismantling their infrastructure and denying them any foothold in the country. This offensive is part of a broader strategy to address terrorism and banditry in the region.
Defense experts have lauded the military’s success, calling it a critical step in ensuring the safety and stability of affected communities. “This operation showcases the effectiveness of coordinated intelligence and ground operations,” said a senior military analyst.
Implications for National Security
The eradication of the Lakurawa group marks a significant victory for Nigeria in its fight against terrorism. However, experts caution that vigilance must remain high, as other criminal elements could exploit the vacuum left by the group’s expulsion.
The Minister called on communities to collaborate with security agencies by providing timely intelligence to help prevent the resurgence of similar threats.
What Lies Ahead?
While the military’s success against the Lakurawa group is commendable, it underscores the need for continuous efforts to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, and radicalization. Strengthening community resilience and providing opportunities for youth remain key priorities in the fight against terrorism.
This declaration serves as a morale booster for Nigerians and a testament to the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property. With continued vigilance and collaborative efforts, Nigeria aims to build on this success to achieve lasting peace and stability.
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