The Nigerian Army has directed troops of Operation Fansan Yamma to eliminate the Lakurawa terrorist group or expel them from Nigerian territory.
Oluyinka Soleye, theatre commander of the Joint Task-Force Northwest, gave the order on Friday during a visit to troops in Balle, headquarters of Gudu LGA, Sokoto state.
Soleye urged the soldiers to stay committed to their mission, pledging the full backing of army headquarters.
“I am here to check on you and motivate you in your efforts. Let me assure you that we stand by you,” he said.
“Do everything within your power to either eliminate the Lakurawa sect or ensure their complete removal from our territory.”
He praised the troops for their dedication and assured them of the army’s continued support in ensuring the operation’s success.
Buhari Kurdula, chairman of Gudu LGA, commended the soldiers for securing the region.
Kurdula said the Lakurawa sect has maintained a presence in the area for about eight years but only established a permanent base in the last year.
He expressed confidence that the government’s decisive actions would soon eliminate the threats posed by the group and other security challenges.
Terrorists have waged a war against the Nigerian state since 2009. The conflict has led to the deaths of over 50,000 people, with more than two million persons displaced from their homes in the north of the country.