Emergence of new Jihadist Group “Lakurawa” sparks concern in North-West Nigeria

November 06, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

Another recently formed jihadist group, known as “Lakurawa,” has surfaced in Nigeria’s Sokoto State, imposing Islamic laws, taxes, and levies on communities.

The Yoruba Times learned that the heavily armed Lakurawa Islamic preachers are operating in five local government areas of the state: Tangaza, Gudu, Ilela, Silame, and Binji.

These preachers, many of whom are believed to be foreigners, have established bases in the affected areas, moving from community to community and propagating anti-western civilization and democratic governance ideologies, eerily similar to those of Boko Haram terrorists.

Sokoto State Deputy Governor, Idris Muhammad Gobir, confirmed the presence of the group during a meeting with students of the Nigeria Defence College on Friday.

He said, “majority of the members of the new Islamic sect are from the Sahel countries of Mali and Niger Republic”.

“They imposed strict Islamic laws, luring young people into the fold with business capital. They also collect taxes and levies.

“During sermons, they’ll tell us they don’t recognize the Nigerian government and its security forces,” a resident of the area said.