Sokoto State has raised alarms over the emergence of a new criminal group called LAKURAWAS, which is reportedly active in five local government areas of the state.
The state’s Deputy Governor, Idris Mohammed Gobir, expressed his concern during a visit from participants of Course 33 at the National Defence College (NDC) from Abuja, who were on a study tour of Sokoto.
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Gobir described LAKURAWAS as a faith-based group with radical ideals, known for possessing advanced weaponry and engaging in various criminal activities.
He noted that the group’s rise comes at a time when Sokoto is already dealing with the pervasive problem of banditry.
“The emergence of this group is alarming, and we are actively working with security agencies to address the growing threat it poses,” Gobir stated.
He emphasized that both the state government and federal security forces are collaborating closely to protect the residents of Sokoto from the rising violence.
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Gobir also provided an update on the state’s security efforts, underscoring the importance of ongoing initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability.
He expressed hope that the study tour by the NDC delegation would offer valuable recommendations for managing the security situation effectively.
Leading the delegation, Air Vice Marshal Titus Zuwahu Dauda explained that the National Defence College, founded in 1992, prepares high-ranking military, police, and strategic agency officers for top-level responsibilities.
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He said that the NDC had graduated 2,982 participants, including officers from 30 countries across Africa and Asia.
At the conclusion of their study tour, Dauda said the NDC team would compile both oral and written reports on their findings, which would be shared with the Sokoto state government to aid in addressing the security challenges.