Nigeria’s latest jihadist group known as Lakurawa has reportedly seized control of communities across five counties in Sokoto State, Nigeria, enforcing Islamic law and collecting taxes.
The group, composed of heavily armed Islamic preachers, has taken over Tangaza, Gudu, Ilela, Silame, and Binji councils in Sokoto. Many of its members are believed to be foreigners from Sahelian nations like Mali and Niger, and they openly oppose Western civilization and democratic governance.
Reacting to the development, Tibor Nagy, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Africa (2018-2021), warned Nigerian authorities, saying, “Just what Nigeria does not need – a new Jihadist group, this time in Sokoto State – causing havoc and imposing strict Islamic law.”
Residents described Lakurawa as preaching a hardline ideology similar to Boko Haram. “They imposed strict Islamic laws, luring young people into the fold with business capital,” said a resident. “During sermons, they’ll tell us they don’t recognize the Nigerian government and its security forces.”
Nagy cautioned, “Remember how Boko Haram started and the evil it became because Nigerian Govt handled it so badly. Deja Vu? Pray Not!”
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
