Govt Ramps Up Action Against Lakurawa Terrorists in Northwest, Assures Nigerians of Lasting Peace
Govt Ramps Up Action Against Lakurawa Terrorists in Northwest, Assures Nigerians of Lasting Peace
By Matthew Eloyi
Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has assured Nigerians that the Lakurawa terrorist group, which has recently heightened threats in Sokoto and parts of the North West, will soon be neutralised.
Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday in Abuja, Laka emphasised the government’s commitment to eliminating the group and restoring peace to the affected areas.
“The recent wave of terrorism in Sokoto State and parts of the North West by the Lakurawa terrorists is being tackled under the coordination of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu,” he said.
Laka also praised the dedication of the armed forces and security agencies in countering insecurity, noting that “this accentuates the patriotic zeal and total commitment of the armed forces, police, and other security agencies in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria.”
Although the Lakurawa group has been active for some time, Laka explained that it has recently posed renewed threats.
“Sadly, a new wave of threats by the Lakurawa has emerged. Although they are not new, they have been around for quite some time, but it is being made as if it is something new,” he said, adding that top security officials, including the NSA, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, and other key leaders have taken concrete steps to contain their activities.
“Like all terrorist groups, they aim to spread fear and undermine the efforts of governments, but I am confident that with the commitment of our armed forces, security agencies, and united community, we will stand resilient and overcome them in no distant time,” he added, urging communities to stand united.
The government, according to Laka, is implementing enhanced security protocols in high-risk areas, utilizing advanced technology for intelligence gathering, and conducting joint operations between the military and other security agencies.
This combined approach, he said, has led to the neutralization and arrest of multiple armed groups.
“You may have noticed an increased joint operation between the military and other security forces that has resulted in the neutralization and arrest of several non-state armed groups,” he noted.
Laka also highlighted the close ties with international allies to strengthen border security.
Laka stressed the importance of public awareness and support in fighting terrorism, urging the media to contribute by raising awareness and helping mitigate security threats.
He also called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, as community vigilance is vital to the security effort.
Recounting the emergence of the Lakurawa group, Laka explained that the group initially offered protection to some communities from bandits, but that this “today’s solution could be tomorrow’s problem.”
He assured that the Lakurawa lacked the capacity to pose a significant threat to national security, and security agencies are actively working to prevent their recruitment activities.
“Let me assure you that the government is doing everything within its power to address the issue of the Lakurawa as comprehensive measures are being implemented to bring lasting peace and security to the affected areas. We remain committed to ensuring that all citizens can live without fear and we will not relent in our efforts until these goals are achieved,” Laka concluded.
