Paragraph 1: The Nigerian military has initiated a robust operation against the Lakurawa terrorist group, a notorious bandit group plaguing the North-West region. This operation follows a devastating attack on a Kebbi State community in November, resulting in the loss of 17 lives. The military high command, spearheaded by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has deployed Special Forces to the region to neutralize the Lakurawa threat and other criminal elements. Brig. Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander of Sector 2, Operation Fasan Yanma, announced the deployment in Sokoto, emphasizing the military’s commitment to restoring peace and security to the affected areas. This deployment coincides with the launch of “Operation Chase Lakurawas Out,” which has already seen success in clearing forests, dismantling camps, and recovering weapons and ammunition.
Paragraph 2: A critical component of the military’s strategy in the North-West is the forthcoming “Operation Safe Corridor North-West,” designed to rehabilitate and reintegrate surrendering bandits. Mirroring the successful “Operation Safe Corridor North-East” program, which focused on de-radicalizing and reintegrating Boko Haram insurgents, this initiative aims to provide a formal pathway for repentant bandits to re-enter society through state-led efforts. The North-East program has already witnessed the successful reintegration of 1,935 ex-Boko Haram terrorists between 2016 and 2022, with many top-ranking terrorists among those who surrendered. The North-West program will follow a similar structure, with the military handing over surrendered bandits to their respective state governments for reintegration. This dual-pronged approach of military action and rehabilitation underlines the government’s commitment to both security and long-term peace in the region.
Paragraph 3: Brig. Gen. Ajose addressed concerns about the reported presence of Lakurawa in six Local Government Areas of Sokoto, dismissing these reports. He highlighted improvements in the security situation, citing bustling local markets and motor parks as evidence of progress. The newly deployed Special Forces, specifically trained and equipped for this mission, have joined forces with existing troops on the ground in Sokoto and Kebbi states. These specialized units are expected to significantly enhance the effectiveness of operations against the Lakurawa militants. The general emphasized the coordinated nature of the military’s response, involving both air and ground offensives, leveraging enhanced intelligence gathering and rapid deployment capabilities.
Paragraph 4: Lt. Gen. Oluyede, speaking at the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference, reinforced the military’s commitment to combating terrorism and banditry in both the North-East and North-West. He stressed the importance of community engagement in intelligence gathering and building trust, recognizing the vital role of local support in the fight against Lakurawa and other terrorist groups. To maintain the effectiveness of deployed troops, Oluyede assured systematic rotations to prevent operational fatigue and prioritize the physical and mental well-being of personnel. He also reiterated the Army’s commitment to upgrading its operational capabilities with the continued acquisition of platforms and combat enablers, including the refurbishment of existing equipment like T-72 tanks, armored personnel carriers, and artillery pieces.
Paragraph 5: Beyond operational enhancements, the Chief of Army Staff highlighted the importance of welfare support for soldiers and their families. He reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing existing schemes for widows, next-of-kin of fallen heroes, and personnel with disabilities sustained in the line of duty. These support systems include timely financial assistance, healthcare access, and educational sponsorship for dependents. This commitment reflects the Army’s recognition of the sacrifices made by its personnel and the importance of providing support to those affected. At the conference, cheques were distributed to next-of-kin and vehicles presented to Regimental Sergeant Majors, demonstrating a tangible commitment to troop morale and welfare.
Paragraph 6: Early reports from the field suggest that the deployment of the Special Forces is yielding significant results, with successful operations against Lakurawa hideouts and the neutralization of several militants. Community members in affected areas have expressed gratitude for the improved security situation, although anxieties remain regarding potential reprisals if troops are withdrawn. The Sokoto State Government has pledged its full support to the military’s efforts, affirming its commitment to collaborating with the federal government in eliminating the Lakurawa threat and other forms of banditry. The government emphasized the importance of community cooperation in providing vital information to security agencies. This collaboration between state and federal authorities, combined with community engagement, is vital for achieving lasting peace and security in the region.
