Defence Headquarters Moves to Halt Lukarawa Recruitment Drive
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has disclosed that a new terrorist group, known as Lukarawa, has commenced a recruitment drive aimed at strengthening its ranks. In response, the DHQ has announced measures to counter these activities, working closely with other security agencies and state governments.
Emergence of Lukarawa Terror Group in Northern Nigeria
Last Thursday, the DHQ confirmed the emergence of the Lukarawa terror group in northern Nigeria, specifically operating in Sokoto and Kebbi states. According to Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Media Operations, Lukarawa began its incursion into these regions from the Niger Republic and Mali, following political instability caused by a recent coup in Niger.
Maj. Gen. Buba attributed part of the problem to local communities, which he said have been accommodating the group and not reporting their activities to security agencies.
Recent Attacks in Kebbi State
On Friday, Lukarawa militants reportedly attacked Mera town in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The assault, which occurred as residents prepared for Friday prayers, resulted in the deaths of at least 15 individuals and the theft of over 100 cattle.
Recruitment Tactics of the Lukarawa Group
Maj. Gen. Buba explained that the group has been using a combination of social media, sermons, and welfare incentives to attract young recruits. He emphasized that the military and other security forces are aware of these recruitment tactics and are actively working to counter them.
“The group is utilizing social media platforms, showcasing sermons, and attracting recruits with welfare packages. We are collaborating with other security forces and the state government to disrupt their recruitment efforts,” he said.
Insights from Security Experts
Mike Ejiofor, a former Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), highlighted that Lukarawa has been active since 2018. According to him, although the group has been present in the region, its members are relatively small in number and do not pose an immediate threat to national security.
Ejiofor provided additional context, explaining that the group originated in the Niger Republic and was initially formed by a local leader named Nassala. Following his death, some members were invited to assist in Sokoto, but a non-kinetic approach by the Sokoto State government led many to relocate. Despite this, a small faction remains active in the area.
“The intelligence community has been tracking their activities, and they currently don’t have the numbers to pose a serious threat to national security,” Ejiofor stated. “However, security agencies must maintain vigilance and receive community support to prevent the group from expanding.”
Need for Community Cooperation
Ejiofor also stressed the importance of community involvement in supporting government efforts to dismantle Lukarawa. He acknowledged the precarious position many communities find themselves in, facing threats from both the group and local bandits who often demand taxes or impose their authority on the population.
“Reporting these activities puts residents in a difficult position, but communal support is essential for national security. Enhanced intelligence efforts and collaboration between communities and security agencies are crucial to limiting the group’s influence,” he added.
Lukarawa's Influence in Local Communities
Timothy Avele, a security analyst, noted that Lukarawa has exerted influence in certain communities, collecting levies, handling judicial cases, and even restricting emirs from performing their official duties. Avele criticized the intelligence agencies for not detecting the group’s activities sooner, as the terror group has reportedly been active for six years without gaining wider attention.
“It appears Lukarawa has been operational for several years. If this information is confirmed, it suggests a failure in intelligence gathering and analysis by security agencies,” Avele stated.
Challenges in Stopping Recruitment Amid Economic Hardship
Avele highlighted that the economic challenges in the country could make it difficult to curb the group’s recruitment. However, he suggested that effective targeting of the group’s funding sources and eliminating its leadership, both locally and internationally, could weaken their recruitment capabilities.
“Addressing the group’s recruitment efforts requires cutting off their funding sources, targeting their leadership, and implementing cyber operations. This is essential to reducing their influence,” he said.
In conclusion, while Lukarawa has established a foothold in northern Nigeria, security agencies are actively working to prevent further recruitment and reduce the group’s impact. Collaborative efforts between the military, intelligence agencies, and local communities will be crucial in preventing this group from growing into a larger security threat
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