The Nigerian Army has ramped up its operations against the terror group Lukarawa, which is expanding its violent activities across Sokoto and Kebbi States.
Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, visited the region to oversee operations, where he gave a clear directive to “crush” the group, which has emerged as a new and growing threat in the northwest.
Lukarawa, believed to be affiliated with jihadist groups in Mali and Niger, poses a significant security risk across the region, with the Nigerian military now on high alert.
During his visit to Sokoto, Oluyede urged residents, particularly in Tangaza, to assist the military by providing timely and accurate information.
“One of the reasons I am here is to charge up my soldiers to rise to the challenge,” he said, adding, “If we don’t get their support, we can’t succeed… We need the support of Nigerians so that we can have economic prosperity in the country.”
The Defence Headquarters explained that Lukarawa’s rise is closely linked to the political instability in neighbouring Mali and Niger, which has allowed extremist groups to spread into Nigeria.
Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted the regional implications of this growing threat.
While in Sokoto, Oluyede also met with the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, as well as stakeholders and troops of Operation Fasan Yamma, as part of efforts to dislodge Lukarawa militants from Nigerian territory.
Oluyede further assessed the readiness of troops in the Tangaza and Illela Local Government Areas, urging them to stay vigilant and cohesive.
“I am here to see my soldiers and assess their state of readiness to continue securing the country,” he said.
A senior officer from the 8th Division confirmed that the army had been fully mobilised to tackle the Lukarawa threat.
“Yes, we are on top of the situation,” he said. “Troops have been mobilised to restore peace and order. We are very determined to dislodge Lukarawa from our land.”
Locals in Tangaza who have long been familiar with the group’s presence reported that Lukarawa has been imposing its rule through violence and intimidation for years.
The group has reportedly disrupted religious activities, imposed taxes, and enforced strict religious practices in the region.
“They never left the environment since around 2018 when they first came, but, unfortunately, this is the first time the government is taking them seriously,” said Mahmud Tangaza, a resident.
Lukarawa also allegedly offers financial incentives to young people to join their ranks, which has further strengthened their hold in the area.
Although Lukarawa initially gained some local support by confronting bandits, there are growing concerns that they may now be collaborating with bandits to carry out attacks on civilians.
Despite their long-standing presence, previous local government officials had downplayed the threat posed by Lukarawa.
However, the group’s activities and escalating violence have led to a stronger military response.
The Nigerian Army’s intensified operations, including the deployment of Operation Fasan Yamma, reflect the government’s commitment to eliminating Lukarawa from the region.
Local communities are being urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces in the effort to restore peace to Sokoto and Kebbi States.
With Lukarawa’s entrenched presence and deep-rooted ties in the region, the Nigerian Army is facing a complex challenge that requires both military action and local support to fully neutralise the group’s influence