Tibor Nagy, former United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, has warned Nigerian authorities about the emergence of a new jihadist group, Lakurawa, in Sokoto State, Northwest Nigeria.
Nagy expressed concern over the situation, saying, “Just what Nigeria does not need – a new Jihadist group, this time in Sokoto State – causing havoc and imposing strict Islamic law.”
In a tweet via his X handle on Tuesday, he further cautioned, “Remember how Boko Haram started and the evil it became because Nigerian Govt handled it so badly. Deja Vu? Pray Not!”
SaharaReporters earlier reported that Lakurawa had reportedly emerged as a serious threat, operating in several local government areas of Sokoto and Kebbi states, including Tangaza, Gudu, Ilela, Silame, and Binji.
The group, made up of heavily armed Islamic preachers, is said to be imposing strict Islamic laws, collecting taxes, and preaching against Western civilisation and democratic governance.
Their ideology mirrors that of Boko Haram, the notorious terrorist group, which initially began as a small movement before spiralling into a violent insurgency.
The authorities and residents of the affected areas are deeply concerned about the group’s presence, particularly as many of its members are believed to be foreigners from Sahel countries such as Mali and Niger.
Sokoto State’s deputy governor, Idris Muhammad Gobir, revealed that the sect was actively recruiting local youth, offering business capital as an incentive to join their ranks.
This sentiment has further heightened fears of the group’s growing influence in the region, where the government’s response to such threats remains under scrutiny.
Nagy’s warning underscores the pressing need for a coordinated and swift response to prevent a repeat of the Boko Haram crisis, which has destabilised parts of northern Nigeria for over a decade.
The emergence of Lakurawa highlights the growing security challenges facing the country, particularly in the face of transnational jihadist networks.
Sahara Reporters
