Insecurity: We are hitting them hard, Lukarawa terror group will soon be history — COAS
…Says cross-border cooperation critical in tackling terror group
…Stresses need for military to step up efforts in fighting terrorism
In the effort to tackle insecurity in Nigeria, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reassured Nigerians that the Lukarawa terror group, infamous for its deadly activities in the northwestern region, will soon be eradicated.
Speaking to State House correspondents after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja on Monday, Oluyede highlighted the significant progress made in ongoing joint military operations with neighbouring countries, particularly Niger Republic.
“We are hitting them hard at the Nigerian end. Once you strike effectively here, they tend to flee across borders. Now that Niger Republic is actively involved, we are confident that very soon, Lukarawa will be history,” Oluyede said.
He underscored the importance of cross-border cooperation in addressing this threat, stressing that insecurity transcends borders and affects the entire region.
The Lukarawa group, which began as a self-defence militia in Sokoto State around 2016, has since evolved into a radical terror faction. Originally formed by local leaders to combat rampant banditry, the group has imposed stringent religious laws, undermined local governance, and expanded its violent activities into Kebbi State.
The Defence Headquarters has officially classified Lukarawa as a terrorist group, noting that its growing influence in the region poses a serious threat to national security.
Their latest attack in November 2024 in Mera village, Augie Local Government Area, resulted in multiple fatalities and extensive cattle thefts. The group has also been linked to extremist elements from Mali and Niger, further exacerbating insecurity in the region.
Lukarawa has employed aggressive recruitment strategies, attracting youths with promises of financial rewards up to N1 million. The group has also successfully sidelined traditional rulers in the areas it controls.
In his comments, Oluyede reiterated his commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s security landscape, emphasising that his approach would differ from previous strategies.
“I am here to reassure Mr. President that I will do my best to improve Nigeria’s security. I intend to take a new approach to achieve significant results,” he affirmed.
Having recently visited operational theatres in the northwest and northeast, Oluyede stressed the need for the military to intensify its efforts.
“I have spoken with my officers and soldiers, stressing the need to end all forms of insecurity in the country. We will do things differently and expect better outcomes,” he added.
