From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a foremost socio-cultural organisation representing the Igbo people, has raised the alarm over a new terrorist group operating under the banner of “LAKURAWA” in the Northwest region of Nigeria, particularly in Kebbi and Sokoto States, warning that Igbo people in the zone are not safe.
The Ohanaeze, in a statement issued by the Secretary-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, noted that “the emergence of this group has rapidly escalated into a direct threat against the safety, dignity, and livelihood of our people, and it is imperative that we speak out unequivocally against this peril.”
Isiguzoro said recent reports detailing the activities of the LAKURAWA terrorist group are disheartening, stressing that the group has reportedly usurped the functions of traditional rulers in Kebbi State, displacing them and assuming their roles as judges and arbiters of local disputes.
“This brazen act not only undermines the cultural and traditional frameworks of the communities but lays bare the harsh reality that many are now governed by fear rather than law. Traditional leaders, who have historically served as essential pillars of justice and community cohesion, now find themselves rendered powerless, operating under the thumb of an unrecognised and dangerous entity.
“The plight of Igbo communities in these regions is nothing short of grave. Reports indicate that the lives and properties of our people are under staunch threat; economic activities have waned significantly due to the constant harassment inflicted by LAKURAWA.
“Peaceful Igbo traders face robberies and violent assaults, resulting in the tragic loss of life—many among the 15 casualties reported in recent attacks. It is unconscionable that in a country where we cherish democratic values, our people are subjected to such brutal treatment.
“Moreover, the Governor of Kebbi State appears overwhelmed; his inability to assert control and safeguard the rights and security of his constituents can lead to a complete breakdown of law and order. In light of this untenable situation, we urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to recognise the urgent need for comprehensive action.
“The President has endowed Ministers of State with imperative responsibilities, and we implore Dr Bello Matawalle, the current Minister of State for Defence, to rise to the occasion and implement decisive measures to quell this rebellion against Nigerian residents, particularly against the Igbo in the Northwest.
“Matawalle’s retention in the Cabinet is not merely a matter of political convenience but a demonstration of presidential trust in his ability to manage national security challenges.
“We believe he possesses the acumen necessary to mobilise resources and execute strategies that will eradicate the Lakurawa menace before it solidifies into another multinational terrorist group akin to Boko Haram.
“While it is accurate to note that Lakurawa currently lacks the level of sophistication and reach of Boko Haram, we cannot afford to underestimate the potential for escalation. The history of terrorism in Nigeria demonstrates that even nascent groups can grow rapidly into formidable foes if their activities are not curtailed immediately. This is not merely a call for action; it is a clarion call for the survival of our people and the preservation of peace in the affected regions.
“Additionally, we call upon President Tinubu to facilitate the immediate deployment of all necessary resources to aid Dr Matawalle and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, urging them to physically relocate to the Northwest to orchestrate a robust military response against the Lakurawa terrorist group. This decisive intervention is paramount in ensuring the safety of every Nigerian citizen as well as the integrity of our national security.
“It is our hope that the Federal Government acknowledges the gravity of this situation and acts with the urgency it demands. We will not sit idly by as terror groups attempt to disrupt the fragile peace that we have worked diligently to uphold. The time for action is now—let us unite in purpose against the scourge of terrorism,” the statement said.
