Lakurawa

Lakurawa is a terrorist group affiliated with extremist organizations operating in the Sahel region, particularly in Mali and Niger. They have begun making inroads into Northern Nigeria, specifically in Sokoto and Kebbi states. Their activities are concentrated in five local government areas of Sokoto State, namely: Tangaza, Gudu, Illela, Binji, and Silame.

History

Lakurawa first emerged in the Gongono Forest, Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State, in 2018. but according to other sources, Lakurawa has existed since around 2016/2017, and the government was reportedly aware of its existence. Lakurawa, a terrorist group from Niger and Mali, is affiliated with ISIS according to the Nigerian Defense Headquarters. They enforce zakkat payment, confiscating cattle from non-compliers. Similar to Boko Haram, they communicate in Azbinanci, Zabarmanci, Barbanci, and Hausa. Lakurawa recruits youths with ₦1,000,000.

Leadership

Ameer Habib Tajje serves as the leader of the terrorist organization Lakurawa. He recently made headlines by releasing a warning to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, urging him to relinquish his criminal activities.

Attacking Communities

Lakurawa claims to protect against bandits, but imposes strict religious laws, and youths have been beaten for shaving beards, having hairstyles, or listening to music, revealing a troubling dual agenda. They first attacked Mera village in Augie local government area of Kebbi state where they killed 25 people but according to the media they killed 15 people.