Lakurawa: Gumi Advocates Dialogue, Shettima Calls for Military Action Against Terror Group

The emergence of a new terrorist group, Lakurawa, operating in Nigeria’s northwest states of Sokoto and Kebbi, has escalated security concerns across the region. First identified in 2018 in Gongono Forest, Sokoto, the group has gained notoriety for its violent actions, including a recent attack in the Mera community in Kebbi’s Augie Local Government Area that left 15 dead. The group, which has links to ISIS and operates in the Sahel, is also imposing taxes on local communities and promoting anti-western and anti-democratic ideologies.

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed the existence of Lakurawa, attributing its rise to the political instability in Mali and Niger, which has allowed extremist factions to spill into Nigeria. Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted the group’s affiliation with jihadi elements from neighboring countries, further complicating Nigeria’s security challenges.

Gumi Calls for Dialogue, Warns Against Force

In response to the crisis, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Islamic scholar, cautioned against solely relying on military force to confront Lakurawa. Gumi suggested that the group’s formation was linked to conflicts among herders and foreign terrorist infiltration, emphasizing that a more nuanced approach, including deradicalization efforts, was needed. He argued that bombarding local communities could exacerbate the problem, driving more individuals toward radical groups.

“We need to engage in dialogue,” Gumi told Daily Post. “But if the government is not committed to both engaging and offering rehabilitation, any military action will fail. It’s a matter of deradicalizing minds, not just fighting with weapons.” Gumi also expressed his willingness to personally mediate with members of the group if the government would support such an initiative.

Shettima Urges Stronger Military Response

In contrast, Yerima Shettima, National President of the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), called for an immediate and forceful response to Lakurawa’s activities. Shettima warned that the group could evolve into another Boko Haram if not quickly neutralized. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between security agencies and local communities, urging the government to ramp up efforts to dismantle the group’s network.

“The government must act decisively,” Shettima said, referring to recent security operations that have led to the decline of other criminal activities in the region. “I believe the kinetic approach must be employed, and the government should provide support to the security forces to eliminate the threat before it spreads.”

Shettima also stressed the need for community involvement, including intelligence sharing and local defense mechanisms like vigilante groups, to bolster national security efforts. He emphasized that the combined efforts of both the government and citizens would be essential in defeating the new terror group.