The emergence of the Lakurawa terrorist group in Sokoto State and parts of the Northwest has sparked concerns among Nigerians.
However, the National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Major General Adamu Laka, has assured citizens there is no cause for alarm.
Speaking during a briefing, Major General Laka emphasized that the group’s membership does not exceed 200 individuals.
He noted that the government, under the coordination of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, is working relentlessly to neutralize the threat.
“Our forces are taking strategic actions to ensure the group is fully eradicated,” Laka stated.
He explained that the Lakurawa group initially gained access to communities by offering protection from bandits.
However, they later turned on these same communities, imposing taxes and attempting to exert control.
“Their tactics are designed to spread fear, but their actual capacity is far less significant than many believe,” he said.
Laka urged Nigerians not to panic or fall prey to the group’s scare tactics, stressing that their strength lies in creating unwarranted fear.
He extended condolences to families who have lost loved ones to the group’s activities.
“These losses are deeply painful, and our hearts go out to the affected families,” Laka said.
He highlighted the importance of unity and resilience as the nation confronts this challenge.
The government, he assured, has taken proactive measures to address the situation.
These include enhanced security protocols, the deployment of advanced technology, and an increase in intelligence-gathering efforts.
“Our security forces are operating at full capacity, and many of the group’s leaders and members have already been captured or neutralized,” he disclosed.
He also mentioned the introduction of 24-hour surveillance at critical locations such as airports, borders, and other high-risk areas.
This, he explained, is part of a broader effort to safeguard all regions of Nigeria.
Laka appealed to the public to support these efforts by remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activities to the authorities.
“Public awareness and cooperation are key to combating terrorism,” he said.
He also warned against spreading unverified information, noting that such actions could unintentionally amplify fear and hinder the fight against extremism.
Major General Laka emphasized that the government is not only focused on defeating terrorist groups but also on addressing the root causes of extremism.
He pointed to initiatives aimed at building resilient communities and promoting peace across diverse regions.
“Many of our programs under the Directorate of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism are designed to foster unity and prevent extremism at its source,” he explained.
The Lakurawa group’s activities have added to the security challenges facing the Northwest region.
Reports indicate that their approach includes intimidation and the imposition of illegal taxes on vulnerable communities.
Despite these tactics, Laka maintained that the government remains determined to dismantle the group’s operations entirely.
“Their actions are unacceptable, and we will not allow them to continue,” he affirmed.
He encouraged citizens to remain calm and trust in the efforts of the nation’s security forces.
“We have overcome similar threats in the past, and we will overcome this one too,” he assured.
Laka called on community leaders and local authorities to work closely with security agencies to strengthen collective efforts against terrorism.
“Our success depends on a unified approach that involves everyone,” he said.
He also stressed the need for Nigerians to resist divisive narratives and uphold the values of peace and inclusivity.
“This is a time for unity, not division,” Laka urged.
