A new Islamist militant group, Lakurawa, has reportedly killed 15 people in northwest Nigeria, marking its most significant attack yet. The group, originating from Niger and Mali, is active in Nigeria’s Kebbi and Sokoto states, according to Nigeria’s military and local residents.
Who are the Lakurawa?
The Lakurawa emerged in northwest Nigeria in 2018, initially assisting locals in defending against armed gangs, commonly called “bandits.” However, residents soon accused the group of stealing livestock and imposing strict Islamic law, leading to tensions. Lakurawa then withdrew to border regions between Niger and Mali but occasionally reentered Nigeria.
The group has ties to the Islamic State, according to military reports. However, Nigerian defense spokesperson Edward Buba said Lakurawa wasn’t initially considered a serious threat. The group’s activities increased following a military coup in Niger in July 2023, which halted joint border patrols between Nigeria and Niger.
What is the Threat Level of Lakurawa?
With Nigeria already battling insurgencies from groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, Lakurawa’s rise poses a new threat in an already unstable region. Security experts warn that Lakurawa’s ideological preaching and attempts to impose strict rules suggest aspirations to expand their influence within Nigeria.
According to James Barnett, a research fellow at the Hudson Institute, Lakurawa’s tactics imply they could be eyeing a more extensive territorial reach, which would further strain Nigeria’s security forces.
Nigeria’s Response to the Lakurawa Threat
In response to the growing threat, the Nigerian military has resumed joint patrols with Niger to curb Lakurawa’s influence. The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, recently visited Sokoto, urging local support in combating the insurgents and reinforcing military efforts against the group.
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