Senator Adamu Aliero, who represents Kebbi Central, has revealed that the Nigerian military successfully forced the Lakurawa terror group out of Nigeria and into Niger Republic, following a military intervention. The operation, which took place on November 12, was executed through the coordinated efforts of Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru, the Chief of Defence Staff, and other key stakeholders involved in the national security apparatus.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, Senator Aliero explained that the operation was a direct response to the escalating threat posed by the Lakurawa terrorists in the North West region. He emphasized that the swift intervention was essential to preventing a potential repetition of the security crisis experienced in the North East. “We told the minister in no uncertain terms that if we play with the Lakurawa terrorists, what happened to the North East may happen to North West,” Aliero stated, highlighting the severity of the situation and the urgency of the military action.
Aliero further detailed that the Lakurawa terrorists had been terrorizing local villagers in Kebbi State, causing significant distress in the region. However, the military forces' arrival on November 12 led to a decisive push, forcing the terrorists to flee into the neighboring Niger Republic. While the Nigerian troops were unable to cross the international boundary, Aliero expressed confidence in the ongoing military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger to tackle cross-border banditry and insurgency.
Aliero also stressed that the situation could have been resolved within five days if the military had been able to pursue the terrorists beyond the border. He warned that the North West, being more populous and rich in agricultural resources, including animal husbandry, irrigation, and fishing, could face disastrous consequences if the terrorists were allowed to settle there permanently. “It’s a war that can be finished within five days, and if we allow a repeat of North East in the North West, it would be devastating,” he stated, calling for greater efforts to secure the area and prevent further escalation.
The Lakurawa group has been responsible for numerous deaths in Kebbi State, which prompted Senator Aliero, alongside other lawmakers, to visit the affected areas, including Argungu and Augie Local Government Areas, for a fact-finding mission. He expressed satisfaction with the swift response of the Defence Minister, emphasizing the need for continued military presence in the region to ensure the terrorists do not return.
“As elected lawmakers, we will continue to work assiduously with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to keep the country safe, secure, and stable because insecurity does not recognize race, religion, tribe, tongue, or party affiliation. Security is everybody’s responsibility,” Aliero added, reinforcing the collective responsibility in safeguarding the nation.
