The Sokoto State Police Command has raised concerns over the activities of an armed Islamic group known as “Lakurawas,” which is reportedly active across five local government areas in Sokoto State.
ASP Ahmed Rufai, spokesperson for the command, confirmed the group’s presence in an interview on Wednesday. According to Rufai, Lakurawas militants, who are said to wield sophisticated weaponry, have established operations in areas including Gudu, Tangaza, Binji, and Illela. Reports indicate the group has been attempting to impose its religious beliefs on local communities.
“They have operated in these regions for several years, armed with advanced weaponry, and are allegedly trying to enforce their own religious doctrines among the local populace,” Rufai stated. He added that the group has even targeted known bandits in these areas, claiming they are acting against criminal elements.
The police alert follows prior warnings from the Sokoto State Government concerning the group’s expanding influence. Deputy Governor Idris Gobir expressed his concerns about Lakurawas’ activities during a recent briefing with Course 33 participants from the National Defence College, Abuja, who were on a study tour in Sokoto State. Gobir noted that intelligence suggests the group’s activities, marked by their use of advanced weapons, have heightened security risks across the five affected local government areas.
“This alarming development adds strain to a state already grappling with issues of banditry,” Gobir remarked, adding that the state government, in partnership with federal security forces, is intensifying efforts to safeguard residents and maintain order.
Gobir also expressed hope that the Defence College’s study tour would provide valuable insights into the Lakurawas’ operations and help formulate strategies for achieving long-term peace in the region.
Air Vice Marshal Titus Zuwahu Dauda, who leads the Defence College delegation, explained that the college—founded in 1992—is Nigeria’s foremost military education institution, preparing officers from the military, police, and strategic agencies for high-level responsibilities. Since its inception, the college has graduated 2,982 participants, including officers from 30 African and Asian countries.
The response from both the Sokoto State Police Command and the state government highlights the urgency of addressing escalating security challenges in Sokoto as authorities work to restore peace and ensure the protection of all residents.
