The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Thursday, issued a significant ruling officially proscribing the Lakurawa sect, along with other related groups, categorizing their activities as acts of terrorism. The judgment specifically targets operations across Nigeria, with particular emphasis on the North-West and North-Central regions, where their activities have been most prevalent.
This landmark decision was delivered by Justice James Omotosho in response to an ex parte application presented by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN). The case, identified as FHC/ABJ/CS/41/2025, was argued on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions, M.B. Abubakar, by David Kaswe, an Assistant Director at the Federal Ministry of Justice.
An affidavit submitted in support of the application by Michael Akawu, a litigation officer in the Department of Public Prosecutions, outlined the notorious activities of the Lakurawa sect. These include:
Cattle rustling,Kidnapping for ransom,
Hostage-taking,
Violent attacks on government officials and security personnel,
Propagating extremist ideologies within local communities, and
Encouraging defiance against legitimate authorities.
Akawu emphasized that the sect's actions have resulted in widespread destruction, loss of lives, and severe harm to both public safety and national security. He further argued that proscribing the group and its affiliates is a necessary step towards stabilizing the country and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
In granting the reliefs sought by the Attorney-General, Justice Omotosho issued the following comprehensive orders:
Officially declaring the activities of the Lakurawa sect and similar groups in Nigeria as acts of terrorism.Proscribing the existence of the Lakurawa sect and affiliated groups under any form, platform, or name.
Directing the immediate publication of the proscription order in the Official Gazette and at least two national newspapers to ensure widespread awareness.
Banning any form of association, participation, or engagement with the Lakurawa sect or groups sharing similar ideologies.
Proscribing other organizations involved in violent crimes such as banditry, cattle rustling, and kidnapping for ransom.
The Lakurawa sect, which initially emerged in Sokoto State around 2016 or 2017, was reportedly established as a self-defense militia aimed at combating banditry. However, it has since evolved into a radical faction enforcing strict religious laws and exerting control over local communities. Reports indicate that the group infiltrated Nigeria from neighboring Niger and Mali, further complicating the nation’s ongoing fight against insecurity.
The sect's violent operations have expanded to other regions, including Kebbi State. One particularly devastating attack occurred in November 2024, in Mera village, Augie Local Government Area. This incident resulted in numerous deaths and the theft of large numbers of cattle, highlighting the group’s destructive impact on rural communities.
Furthermore, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters has formally categorized Lakurawa as a terrorist organization. The group’s connections to extremist networks in Niger and Mali have been identified as aggravating factors, exacerbating insecurity in the northwestern part of the country.
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to eradicating terrorism and restoring peace, pledging to use all available resources to combat the Lakurawa sect and similar organizations threatening the nation’s stability.
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