New Jihadist Group ‘Lakurawa’ Seizes Control of Sokoto Communities, Enforces Islamic Laws and Taxes

A new jihadist group called “Lakurawas” has reportedly taken control of several communities in five local government areas of Sokoto State, where they have imposed their own Islamic laws and started levying taxes. The Deputy Governor of Sokoto, Idris Gobir, recently warned of the group’s growing presence and its dangerous activities.

He emphasized the need for greater security efforts to remove them. Gobir revealed that while the group claims to be a faith-based sect, they are armed with sophisticated weapons and are engaging in criminal activities across multiple regions in the state.According to intelligence sources, the Lakurawas have established strongholds in the local councils of Tangaza, Gudu, Ilela, Silame, and Binji, where they are enforcing their own set of rules.

Residents in the affected areas have expressed concern about the growing influence of these armed Islamic militants, many of whom are suspected to be foreigners from countries like Mali and Niger. Some local people have reported that the group recruits young individuals by offering financial support and imposing strict Islamic laws on the communities. The group also collects taxes and levies from the locals.

Witnesses described how the Lakurawas preach against Western culture and the Nigerian government, similar to the ideological stance of Boko Haram. Some locals said the group openly rejects the authority of the Nigerian state and its security forces.