Residents and officials in Sokoto State have expressed deep concerns over the growing presence and activities of the notorious Lakurawa sect, which has been terrorizing communities and imposing its own brand of harsh laws.
Malam Muhammadu Bauni, a resident of Sokoto, spoke out saying,
“They claim they are protecting us against bandits, but they’re making life difficult for us. They impose certain religious laws on our communities, beating our youths for shaving their beards or listening to music.” Bauni lamented that the group’s actions are unacceptable, especially since they claim to be Muslims, just like the rest of the community.
The Lakurawa sect has been accused of indoctrinating locals, targeting government agents, and collecting religious taxes, known as zakat. If individuals refuse to pay, they confiscate their animals until payment is made. Bauni revealed that the group has been abducting government officials, with a health personnel recently taken from their primary health center.
Another witness said that after their preaching sessions, they translate their messages into these languages to ensure that all members of the local communities understand their doctrines. “They arrive in large numbers, often coming on 10 to 15 motorcycles, and leave some members behind as they move to other towns.”
The Chairman of Tangaza Local Government Area, Alhaji Isa Salihu Kalenjeni, alleged that the group is luring youths with N1 million each to join their campaign against the government. Kalenjeni’s claims were echoed by Deputy Governor Idris Gobir, who acknowledged the group’s presence and stated that they possess sophisticated weapons.
The military high command confirmed the presence of the Lakurawa sect in Sokoto and Kebbi states. General Edward Buba attributed the group’s emergence to the coup in the Republic of Niger, which led to a breakdown in military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger.
The Lakurawa sect originated from the Republic of Niger, Mali, and Libya. Initially invited by locals to combat banditry, the group turned on its hosts, imposing harsh laws and punishments. They established a camp in Siro-Kuyambana forest and began recruiting locals, using their shared Fulfulde language to spread their ideology.
The Sokoto government has acknowledged the security challenges posed by the Lakurawa sect.
The military has launched Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations to degrade the terrorists. General Buba assured that troops are working tirelessly to neutralize the threat.
