Former Department of State Services (DSS) operative Seyi Adetayo has issued a call for urgent and immediate action in response to the threat posed by a new terrorist group identified as Lakurawa. Adetayo urged Nigerians to recognize the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing that the country is already, in his view, in a state of war against terror.
In an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily program on Friday, Adetayo drew a comparison between Lakurawa and other infamous terrorist organizations, such as ISWAP, Boko Haram, and various bandit factions that have wreaked havoc across Nigeria's Northeast region. He warned that Lakurawa could become a significant part of the nation's ongoing terror crisis unless the government adopts a more assertive approach.
Adetayo stated, “Lakurawa will become another name that dominates our discourse on terror until Nigeria declares itself at war and implements critical measures to enhance both military and intelligence operations.”
The Director of Defense Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, provided further details on the situation, confirming earlier in November that “Troops are actively confronting Lakurawa forces in the Northwestern Nigerian states of Sokoto and Kebbi.” According to Maj. Gen. Buba, Lakurawa comprises terror affiliates who originated from the Sahel region, particularly Mali and Niger, and migrated into Nigeria following destabilizing conflicts in those areas.
The group’s operations are reportedly centered in Kebbi and Sokoto states, with initial support from some local communities in these regions. Security experts have criticized these communities, asserting that they should have reported the presence of Lakurawa members to authorities rather than allowing them to establish a foothold.
Over time, Lakurawa’s influence has grown, intensifying security concerns and creating an increasingly volatile environment in Northwestern Nigeria.
In light of these developments, Adetayo stressed the need for a significant expansion of the Nigerian military. He argued that “Massive recruitment into the army is essential, as the current strength of our armed forces is insufficient to counter this growing threat.” Adetayo expressed concern that, if not addressed, this could lead to more young men being drawn into terror groups, transforming Nigeria into a country where safe travel becomes almost impossible.
Offering an alternative view on the situation, retired military strategist Maj. Gen. Pat Akem acknowledged the emergence of Lakurawa as a serious concern but advised against widespread alarm.
Maj. Gen. Akem assured citizens that President Bola Tinubu has already taken proactive steps to counter the Lakurawa threat. He advised that “War should not be declared,” and explained that the president has instructed the armed forces to take decisive action against these bandits.
Akem further cautioned that declaring a state of war without having adequate resources would be counterproductive. He suggested instead that efforts should focus on strengthening the military’s reputation and capabilities. Maj. Gen. Akem also argued that the armed forces' ongoing role in policing and anti-banditry missions could be detrimental, as these operations risk undermining the military’s primary combat functions.