The Sokoto State Police Command has confirmed the presence of an armed Islamic group, known as “Lakurawas,” operating in several local government areas.
This group is reported to be imposing its beliefs on local communities while engaging in activities that challenge other criminal elements in the region.
The police spokesman Ahmed Rufai revealed that “Lakurawas,” armed with advanced weaponry, has been active in Gudu, Tangaza, Binji, Illela, and one additional local government area.
“They have been in those areas for some years now,” Rufai stated. “They are armed with weapons, and part of their agenda is to impose their own kind of religious practice on the people. They even attack suspected bandits in the area as, according to information available to us, they claim to be working against illegalities.”
Sokoto State’s Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idris Mohammed Gobir, expressed concern over this development during a meeting with National Defence College Course 33 participants on a study tour in Sokoto.
Gobir characterized “Lakurawas” as a faith-driven extremist group with a concerning influence in the state.
“An assessment conducted indicated that this group has sophisticated weapons, and their criminal activities have spread across approximately five local government areas,” Gobir explained. “This alarming development is adding to the banditry already affecting our state.”
The deputy governor further highlighted that the state government is working closely with federal security agencies to address the growing security threats posed by the group.
He noted that efforts are underway to mitigate the situation and ensure the safety of Sokoto’s residents.
The study tour’s delegation leader, Air Vice Marshal Titus Dauda, described the importance of their visit, noting that the National Defence College, established in 1992, serves as the country’s premier institution for advanced military and strategic training.
“The college has graduated 2,982 participants, including officers from 30 African and Asian countries, preparing them for leadership in security and governance,” Dauda said.
Gobir expressed hope that the National Defence College’s insights would help combat this emerging threat, emphasizing the need for peaceful coexistence and secure communities across Sokoto State.
