The Nigerian Senate has raised the alarm over the infiltration of terrorists operating under the banner of Lakurawa from Mali and Burkina Faso into various northern states, including Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Niger.
In response to this growing threat, the Senate has called on the Nigerian military to deploy early warning systems to detect and forestall further invasions.
Additionally, the military has been urged to maintain an active presence in affected communities and collaborate with local security agencies to halt the spread of terrorist activities. While commending the military for its swift response to insurgency-related incidents, the Upper Chamber has emphasized the need for vigilance to contain the situation.
The resolution includes a directive to the Federal Government to dispatch an assessment team to evaluate the extent of damage caused by the terrorists and address the immediate relief needs of affected families.
During the Senate session, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, representing Kebbi North explained how terrorists have entered the country through the Nigeria-Niger border, targeting local government areas such as Illela, Tangaza, and Silame in Sokoto State.
He revealed, “This group of terrorists raided communities, stealing livestock worth hundreds of millions of naira. A recent large-scale attack in Mera village, Augie Local Government, Kebbi State, left over 20 people dead and houses destroyed.”
Senator Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto South added, “This is not the first time this group has invaded Nigeria. Back in 2018, as governor of Sokoto State, I appealed to the Federal Government for intervention. These terrorists have international ties and wield extremely sophisticated weapons.”
Senator Adamu Aliero, representing Kebbi Central, noted the urgency of the situation, stating, “The terrorists control large areas of northern Mali and are now extending their reign of terror to northern Nigeria. If left unchecked, this menace could spread to other regions.”
The Senate also called for the revival of past resolutions on terrorism, urging the Presidency to implement them immediately. “Revisiting and enforcing these resolutions will significantly reduce banditry and insurgency,” Aliero argued.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) provided updates on related military operations in Borno State, where Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents ambushed troops in Gubio Local Government Area.
According to Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, the encounter resulted in the deaths of five soldiers, while over 30 insurgents were neutralized. Military reinforcements, supported by an air component, successfully repelled the attackers.
Reports indicated that the insurgents launched multiple assaults on a special military unit stationed in Kareto community, Gubio. During one attack, the insurgents destroyed military equipment, including vehicles and an excavator.
