The ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) has approved a $100 million funding package for the construction of a 47.7-kilometer stretch of Nigeria’s ambitious Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, marking a significant step toward enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.
The funding approval was part of a larger set of commitments unveiled during EBID’s 92nd Ordinary Session, where the bank announced a total allocation of €174 million and $125 million for infrastructure and social development initiatives across West Africa.
The decision was reached during the bank’s Board of Directors’ meeting held on June 30, 2025.
The funding, allocated for Section 1, Phase 1 of the 700-kilometer highway project, will support construction starting from Ahmadu Bello Way in Lagos.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a flagship initiative of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, aims to connect nine Nigerian states—Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River—enhancing access to seaports, agro-industrial zones, and coastal communities.
The project is designed to boost trade, tourism, and industrial development along Nigeria’s southern economic corridor.
Anita Somda-Dala, Head of Communications at EBID, described the highway as a “strategic investment” that will unlock new regional value chains.
“This project will link nine Nigerian states, improve access to seaports and isolated agro-industrial areas, and contribute to the emergence of a regional value chain to help coastal communities,” she said in a statement.
The funding is part of a broader €174 million and $125 million package approved by EBID to support infrastructure and social development projects across West Africa, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for industry, innovation, and infrastructure.
Construction of the highway began in March 2024, with Hitech Construction Company Limited overseeing the initial phase. President Tinubu commissioned the first completed 30-kilometer section from Ahmadu Bello Way to Eleko Village in Lagos on May 31, 2025, hailing it as a milestone in Nigeria’s infrastructure development.
However, the project has not been without controversy, with critics, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, questioning the lack of public bidding for the contract and raising concerns about environmental and social impacts, particularly the demolition of properties along the route.
The Federal Government has allocated over ₦3 trillion for various segments of the highway, with Section 1 awarded at ₦1.068 trillion, Section 2 at ₦1.6 trillion, and Sections 3A and 3B at ₦1.33 trillion.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has defended the project’s cost and execution, emphasizing its potential to transform Nigeria’s economy by improving connectivity and reducing cargo turnaround times.
The government has also paid ₦18 billion in compensation to affected property owners, though concerns persist about the adequacy of environmental and social impact assessments (ESIAs).
The $100 million injection from EBID is expected to accelerate progress on the highway, which is projected to be completed by 2028 at an estimated total cost of ₦14–15.6 trillion.
Stakeholders, including the Nigerian Ports Authority and local communities, have called for transparency and inclusive engagement to ensure the project delivers on its promise of economic transformation without displacing residents or harming biodiversity hotspots.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, bolstered by ECOWAS funding, stands as a pivotal project in driving trade, connectivity, and sustainable development across the nation’s coastal corridor.
ECOWAS Bank Approves $100m For Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project
Anti-Govt Protest: Calls For President Ruto To Step Down
On June 25th, 2025, streets across Kenya were filled with thousands of protesters demanding the resignation of President William Ruto and an end to police brutality. The protests, which marked the one-year anniversary of a major uprising against Ruto’s controversial tax bill in 2024, were meant to honour those who lost their lives during that earlier movement.
However, what began as a commemorative demonstration turned violent, with reports confirming the deaths of at least 10 people, further deepening public outrage.
While protesters described the march as a demand for justice and accountability, Kenya’s Interior Minister painted a different picture, calling the protest “terrorism disguised as dissent” and an “unconstitutional attempt” to unseat the government.
He denied any excessive use of force by the police and instead praised the security agencies for their “remarkable restraint” and swift action in what he described as a foiled coup attempt. The sharp divide in narratives reflects Kenya’s growing political tension, as citizens continue to push for reforms and leaders seek to maintain order and control.
INEC Confirms 122 Applications for Political Party Registration
The Independent National Electoral Commission has disclosed that it has obtained 12 additional applications from organizations seeking registration as political parties, raising the total number of applications being reviewed to 122.
This follows the commission’s previous statement on June 23, noting that it had received 110 applications.
The newly added associations include the Democratic Alternative Party, I Love Nigeria, Integrity Party of Nigeria, National Youth Progressive Party, Providence People’s Congress, Democratic Nigeria, United Nigeria Development Party, Alliance for a United Nigeria, African Independent Alliance, Greater Nigeria Movement, African Liberation Party, and Nigeria Farmers & Traders Progressive Party.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC highlighted that the registration process continues to be transparent and equitable for all applicants.
“On Monday last week (23rd June 2025), the commission announced that it had received applications from 110 associations seeking registration as political parties.
“We also assured Nigerians that we will be giving regular updates on the matter. The commission is processing these applications transparently and in fairness to all applicants.
“Meanwhile, the commission has since received 12 more applications for registration as political parties as of yesterday, Wednesday 2nd July 2025, bringing the total number of applications to 122.
“The list of the new applications by names of associations, their acronyms, addresses, and interim chairmen and secretaries has been uploaded to our website and other platforms for public information.
“We will respond to these applicants in line with the Electoral Act and Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties 2022,” he stated.
INEC noted internal changes in some applicant associations, including the replacement of an interim secretary in one instance due to defection to another group.
The commission advised all applicants to maintain consistent leadership and contact details during the registration process to prevent delays.
“However, the commission notes that one association has already changed its interim Secretary as a result of defection to another association.
“To facilitate the consideration of these applications, the commission appeals to associations to maintain consistency of their proposed leadership and addresses so that they do not by their actions cause a delay to the timely consideration of their applications,” the statement added.
In connection with this, INEC issued Supplementary Regulations and Guidelines for reviewing election results, as provided under Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022.
The section permits INEC to examine declarations or returns that were made under duress or in breach of applicable laws and regulations.
“The provision to Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 empowers the commission to review declarations and returns in elections that are not made voluntarily or done contrary to the law, regulations and guidelines for the election.
“Consequently, there have been many interpretations of Section 65 of the Electoral Act, making it necessary for the commission to use its powers under the law to issue regulations, guidelines or manuals to give effect to the provisions of the Act and for its administration,” the statement added.
It stated that clear procedures and timelines had been outlined, as detailed in Supplementary No.1 to the main regulations and guidelines for the Conduct of Elections 2022.
“As approved by the commission, the supplementary regulations and guidelines have been uploaded to the commission’s website and other platforms for public information,” the statement noted.
INEC also continued to highlight various irregularities in the applications received so far.
Some associations submitted duplicate acronyms, while others failed to include essential party officials.
Forty applications lacked a protem national secretary, five were submitted without a protem chairman, and seven were missing both positions.
Additionally, four associations did not provide an official contact address, while one application omitted a party logo.
Notably, three proposed parties — the New Green Generation Party, New Green Congress, and New Green Coalition Party — named the same individuals as interim officials.
The Republican Party of Nigeria filed two separate applications, each listing different leaders and addresses.
INEC restated that all submissions would be reviewed in accordance with the Electoral Act and its internal guidelines before a final decision is made.
World Mourns As Footballer Star Diogo Jota Dies In Tragic Accident
The football world has been plunged into mourning following the untimely death of Diogo Jota, the Portuguese international and Liverpool , who lost his life in a road accident in Spain alongside his brother, Andre Silva. The 28-year-old, known for his versatility, tenacity, and spirit on the field, leaves behind a grieving wife, three children, and a global community of fans and teammates devastated by the loss.
Since the heartbreaking news broke, tributes have poured in from football clubs, players, international institutions, and fans across the world, all trying to come to terms with a loss that feels deeply personal.
Liverpool in Mourning
Jota’s current club, Liverpool FC, confirmed his passing with a statement expressing the depth of their grief:
“The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre… We request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.”
Manager Arne Slot spoke with visible emotion:
“What can anyone say at a time like this? Diogo was not just our player. He was a loved one… we will celebrate him when the time is right, but now, we mourn.”
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, clearly shaken, said:
“There must be a bigger purpose… but I can’t see it. Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but a loving and caring husband and father.”
Captain Virgil van Dijk added:
“What a human being, what a player, what a family man. My heart is breaking… we will always be there for your family.”
From current and former teammates like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Darwin Núñez, and club legend Kenny Dalglish, the messages were the same—shock, sorrow, and a collective promise to remember and support his family.
Portuguese Football Devastated
As a proud member of Portugal’s golden generation, Jota’s death also sent shockwaves across his home country. The Portuguese Prime Minister, Luis Montenegro, described the news as “unexpected and tragic,” while Cristiano Ronaldo lamented,
“It doesn’t make sense… we were together just recently. I know you’ll always be with them. We’ll all miss you.”
Bruno Fernandes said,
“There are no words of consolation for so much pain. I will always remember you with your smile.”
From Ruben Neves to Pedro Proença, president of the Portuguese Football Federation, every voice echoed a national heartbreak.
Global Reactions
Tributes extended far beyond Portugal and England.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin recalled the moment he presented Jota with a medal just weeks ago, now a memory “forever burned with sorrow.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described Jota as someone “with many great years ahead.”
LeBron James, co-owner of Liverpool, said:
“My prayers go out to his loved ones… YNWA JOTA!!”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted that even beyond football fans, the grief is widespread, calling it a “devastating” loss.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria also joined in mourning the loss:
“We are sad to hear of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and teammates at this time. May his soul rest in peace 💔”
Clubs Pay Their Respects
Former club Wolverhampton Wanderers said:
“We are heartbroken… the memories he created will never be forgotten.”
His brother Andre’s club, FC Penafiel, announced official mourning and promised to honour both brothers in their upcoming fixtures:
“The loss of two young lives fills us with pain and consternation.”
Fans Share Their Pain
Beyond official statements, fans around the world turned to social media to express their sorrow:
A Liverpool fan, @REDSince1998, wrote:
“I didn’t like him at first… but he won me over. The boy had a big heart. Now he’s gone, and I’m numb.”
Another fan, @tacticsman1711, highlighted the personal tragedy:
“His wife has lost her soulmate. Three kids are now without their father. My heart truly aches for them.”
Diogo Jota’s death has left a profound silence in world football. As tributes continue to pour in from every corner of the sport, one thing is clear; he was deeply loved, admired, and respected. His absence will be felt for years to come.
Rest in peace, Diogo.
South Africa Mourns Former Deputy President David Mabuza
South Africa is in mourning following the death of David Dabede Mabuza, a veteran politician and former Deputy President, who passed away on 3 July 2025 in Sandton. He was 64.
Born on 25 August 1960 in the rural settlement of Phola near Hazyview in what is now Mpumalanga Province, Mabuza rose from modest beginnings to become one of South Africa’s most influential—and at times controversial—political figures in the post-apartheid era.
A Teacher Turned Politician
Mabuza began his career as an educator. After matriculating from Khumbula High School, he earned a teaching diploma in mathematics education from Mgwenya College of Education in 1985. While pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of South Africa, he worked as a teacher and later served as Principal of Lungisani Secondary School between 1989 and 1993.
His early political consciousness was shaped by the Black Consciousness Movement and student activism. He served as secretary of the Azania Student Organisation (AZASO) and later led the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) from 1988 to 1991—an affiliate of the powerful Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU). These formative years laid the groundwork for a life in political service.
Climbing the Political Ladder
Following South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994, Mabuza was appointed MEC for Education in Mpumalanga by then-Premier Mathews Phosa. Though dismissed in 1998 after a scandal involving inflated matric results, Mabuza’s political career remained resilient. He returned to serve in various roles, including MEC for Housing (1999–2001) and later MEC for Agriculture and Land Administration (2008–2009).
Mabuza’s rise within the African National Congress (ANC) was equally strategic. He served as ANC Chairperson in Nelspruit (1994–1998) and became Provincial Chairperson from 2008 to 2017. In 2007, he was elected to the ANC’s National Executive Committee during the landmark Polokwane Conference, where he backed Jacob Zuma in the internal leadership battle against Thabo Mbeki.
His political influence grew steadily, particularly through the formation of the so-called “Premier League”, a bloc within the ANC that included Ace Magashule and Supra Mahumapelo. This alliance played a pivotal role in the 2017 ANC elective conference, helping Cyril Ramaphosa secure the party presidency. Mabuza himself was elected Deputy President of the ANC at that conference.
Deputy President of South Africa
In February 2018, following Jacob Zuma’s resignation, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Mabuza as Deputy President of South Africa, a position he held until February 2023. His time in office was characterized by efforts to stabilize the ANC, navigate internal party dynamics, and support Ramaphosa’s reform agenda, though he was often seen as a behind-the-scenes power broker rather than a public-facing leader.
Mabuza’s leadership style was described as populist, and he was known for expanding the ANC’s support base in Mpumalanga through aggressive membership drives and grassroots mobilization.
Exit from Politics
In early 2023, Mabuza voluntarily offered to step down as Deputy President of the country, making way for Paul Mashatile, who had succeeded him as ANC Deputy President. His resignation was formally acknowledged in March 2023, marking the end of a significant chapter in South African politics.
Personal Life and Legacy
David Mabuza was married to Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi, a real estate agent at Pam Golding. He previously had a relationship with Ruthi Funi Silinda, often referred to as his former fiancée or customary ex-wife, with whom he had a child.
Despite controversies throughout his career, including allegations of political manipulation and questions about corruption, Mabuza remained a significant figure in South African politics for over three decades. Supporters hailed him as a skilled political strategist and an advocate for rural communities, while critics accused him of enabling factionalism within the ANC.
Final Days
David Mabuza passed away on 3 July 2025 in Sandton. The cause of death has not yet been officially disclosed. His death marks the end of a complex and storied political journey that mirrored the evolving challenges of South Africa’s democratic experiment.
AFN Responds to Reports of Favour Ofili’s Possible Allegiance Switch
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has moved to address mounting concerns over athlete welfare following widespread reports that sprint star Favour Ofili may have switched her sporting allegiance to Turkey.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa confirmed that while there has been no official communication from either the athlete or World Athletics, the development has triggered serious introspection within Nigerian athletics.
“If Nigeria can invest more in athletes, it will go a long way,” Okowa said in an interview with Making of Champs. “We’re hearing that even countries in the Arab world are beginning to adopt similar strategies to what Turkey is doing. The concern isn’t only about Ofili—it’s also about others we haven’t yet heard about.”
Okowa emphasized that, although the news remains speculative, the situation highlights the urgent need for Nigeria to overhaul its athlete management and support systems.
The 22-year-old sprinter, who recently set a world record in the 150m at the Adidas Atlanta City Games, is said to be increasingly disillusioned with the Nigerian sports administration. She reportedly cited administrative lapses, which affected her participation in both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, as key reasons for her frustration.
Renowned Jamaican journalist Kayon Raynor reported that Ofili had communicated her discontent with both the AFN and the Nigeria Olympic Committee to the Athletics Integrity Unit.
Okowa acknowledged Ofili’s growing dissatisfaction and pointed to the lure of substantial financial incentives being offered by other nations as a major factor behind the increasing trend of nationality switches.
“She’s an adult and is working closely with her coach. Offers like these are hard to ignore,” he said.
“This isn’t just happening in Nigeria. Jamaican, Kenyan, and other athletes are also being approached. We need to see this in a global context.”
Turkey has reportedly intensified its recruitment of international talent, allegedly offering up to $500,000 to athletes willing to switch nationalities.
This trend echoes previous high-profile cases involving Nigerian athletes such as Francis Obikwelu (Portugal), Gloria Alozie (Spain), and Femi Ogunode (Qatar), all of whom went on to achieve significant international success after changing allegiances.
Okowa revealed that he had personally tried reaching out to Ofili and her family, with whom he previously shared a close relationship, but all communication efforts had been unsuccessful.
“I’ve tried multiple times to contact her. Suddenly, she blocked everyone. That’s when I realized something was wrong,” he said.
As of now, World Athletics still lists Ofili as a Nigerian athlete, and the Turkish Athletics Federation has not made any official announcement regarding her status. However, with the 2025 World Athletics Championships scheduled for September in Tokyo, her potential absence poses a significant blow to Nigeria’s medal hopes.
Ofili had already qualified for the global event, making the uncertainty surrounding her status all the more critical to Nigeria’s international athletic aspirations.
FG Approves Reconstruction of Apapa, Tincan Ports
The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a comprehensive reconstruction plan for the Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports in Lagos, a move aimed at revitalizing the nation’s maritime infrastructure and enhancing economic competitiveness.
The announcement, made on July 4, 2025, by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s seaports to meet global standards.
The reconstruction project is expected to address longstanding challenges at the two major ports, including dilapidated infrastructure, congestion, and inefficiencies that have hampered trade and logistics.
Apapa and Tin Can Ports, critical gateways for Nigeria’s import and export activities, handle over 70% of the country’s maritime cargo. However, years of neglect and overuse have led to delays, high operational costs, and reduced competitiveness compared to other African ports.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Minister Oyetola stated, “The approval for the reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Ports is a landmark decision by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. This project will not only decongest the ports but also improve efficiency, reduce turnaround times for vessels, and boost Nigeria’s trade capacity in the global market.”
The reconstruction plan includes upgrading port facilities, modernizing cargo handling equipment, deepening access channels, and improving road networks around the ports to ease traffic congestion.
The project also aims to integrate digital technologies for seamless port operations, aligning with international best practices. While the exact cost of the reconstruction was not disclosed, sources indicate that the government is exploring public-private partnerships (PPPs) to fund the initiative.
Stakeholders in the maritime sector have welcomed the announcement, with many expressing optimism about its potential to transform Nigeria’s economy.
“This is long overdue,” said Chinedu Okonkwo, a logistics expert based in Lagos.
“Modernizing these ports will reduce the cost of doing business, attract more foreign investment, and create thousands of jobs for Nigerians.”
However, some port users have called for transparency in the execution of the project, citing past instances where similar initiatives were stalled by mismanagement.
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has assured stakeholders that a robust monitoring framework will be established to ensure timely and quality delivery of the project.
The reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Ports comes on the heels of other government efforts to bolster Nigeria’s maritime sector, including the recent launch of agricultural equipment to enhance food security.
Analysts believe that the port upgrades could position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in West Africa, reducing reliance on neighboring countries’ ports for trade.
The timeline for the commencement of the reconstruction was not specified, but the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has promised to release further details, including contractor selection and project milestones, in the coming weeks.
As Nigeria seeks to strengthen its economic resilience, the revitalization of these key ports is expected to play a pivotal role in driving growth and global competitiveness.
FG Unveils ₦50 Million Grant for STEM Students
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a ₦50 million grant initiative aimed at supporting high-performing students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) disciplines.
The program, unveiled by the Ministry of Education, targets undergraduates from 300 level and above in Nigerian universities, with the goal of fostering research and entrepreneurial ventures in critical sectors of the economy.
The announcement, made during a press briefing in Abuja on July 2, 2025, is part of the government’s broader strategy to drive innovation and address Nigeria’s technological and scientific challenges.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the grant would empower young Nigerians to develop solutions to pressing national issues, including energy, healthcare, and digital transformation.
“This ₦50 million grant is a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to building a knowledge-based economy,” Dr. Alausa stated.
“We are investing in our brightest minds in STEMM fields to ensure they have the resources to innovate, conduct groundbreaking research, and create entrepreneurial opportunities that will transform Nigeria.”
The grant is open to students who demonstrate academic excellence and innovative potential in their respective fields.
Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited Nigerian universities and have a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.0 or its equivalent. The funds can be used for research projects, prototype development, or startup ventures aligned with STEMM disciplines.
The initiative has been welcomed by stakeholders in the education sector, with university administrators and student leaders praising the government’s focus on STEMM. Prof. Aisha Mohammed, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, described the grant as a “game-changer” for students and the nation.
“This is a step in the right direction. Supporting STEMM students will not only boost academic research but also position Nigeria as a hub for technological innovation,” she said.
However, some students have raised concerns about the accessibility of the grant, urging the government to ensure transparency in the selection process.
“The criteria must be clear, and the process should be free from favoritism to truly benefit deserving students,” said Chinedu Okeke, a 400-level engineering student at Ahmadu Bello University.
The Ministry of Education has assured that a rigorous and transparent selection process will be implemented, with a dedicated committee overseeing the application and disbursement process.
Applications are set to open in August 2025, with further details to be provided through university portals and the ministry’s website.
The grant comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with brain drain in its STEMM sectors, as many talented graduates seek opportunities abroad. Analysts believe this initiative could help retain talent and encourage homegrown innovation.
The government has also hinted at plans to expand the program in subsequent years, potentially increasing the funding pool and including postgraduate students.
As Nigeria looks to strengthen its position in the global knowledge economy, the ₦50 million STEMM grant represents a significant step toward empowering the next generation of scientists, engineers, and medical professionals to drive national development.
Ugandan Military Helicopter Crashes in Somalia, Killing Five
A Ugandan military helicopter deployed as part of the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia crashed at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport on Wednesday, claiming the lives of five passengers, according to Ugandan military spokesperson Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye.
The helicopter, carrying eight people, crashed just moments before landing. Three of the occupants survived, but suffered severe injuries and burns, Kulayigye confirmed.
The crash impact triggered the detonation of onboard munitions, which destroyed nearby structures and injured three civilians, he added.
In a statement, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) said search and rescue efforts were ongoing to recover all passengers and crew.
Eyewitness Farah Abdulle, who works at the airport, described the scene:
“We heard the blast and saw smoke and flames over a helicopter. The smoke entirely covered the helicopter.”
Photos from the scene showed thick smoke rising near the airport, consistent with the aftermath of the explosion.
Earlier reports from Somalia’s state-run SONNA confirmed that the helicopter had been engulfed in flames after crashing.
The helicopter was part of AUSSOM’s ongoing support mission in Somalia. The peacekeeping force includes over 11,000 personnel, working in collaboration with Somalia’s military to combat the al-Shabaab insurgency, an al-Qaeda-affiliated group that has been waging a violent campaign for nearly two decades to overthrow Somalia’s internationally recognized government and impose a harsh version of Sharia law.
Lakurawa Terrorists Strike Sokoto Village, Kill 15 in Devastating Attack
At least 15 residents of Kwallajiya village in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State were killed in a brutal attack by suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group on Wednesday afternoon. The assault, which left several others injured, has heightened fears of escalating violence in Nigeria’s northwest, where the extremist group has intensified its operations.
The gunmen, believed to be led by a notorious bandit known as Charambe, stormed the village in the early hours, opening fire on unsuspecting residents. Armed with sophisticated weaponry, the attackers shot sporadically, targeting civilians and causing widespread panic.
The victims were buried that evening in accordance with Islamic rites, as confirmed by Isa Bashir Kalanjeni, the Executive Chairman of Tangaza Local Government Council, who led a delegation to the village for the mass burial.
Community members expressed deep concern over the persistent violence, alleging that some locals may be collaborating with the terrorists, providing insider information that facilitates such attacks.
“We believe these attacks are sometimes facilitated by insider information. It is crucial for residents to work closely with security forces,” a local source stated.
Efforts to reach the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters and the Sokoto Police Command for official comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
The attack is believed to be a reprisal for the recent killing of three Lakurawa members. The group, suspected to have ties to extremist factions, has been terrorizing Sokoto and neighboring Kebbi States, targeting agrarian communities during the farming season.
This incident follows a series of violent assaults by the group, including an explosion in Gwabro village on June 9 that killed six people and injured three others, and an ambush in Hurumi Forest on May 5 that claimed 13 hunters.
The Lakurawa group, which emerged in the late 2010s as herdsmen offering protection to locals against bandits, has since turned to extremism, attempting to impose Islamic law and engaging in kidnappings, extortion, and targeted killings.
Security analysts warn that their growing use of improvised explosive devices and advanced weaponry poses a significant threat, potentially surpassing other extremist groups if left unchecked.
“The behaviour at which the Lakurawa is operating is going to be more dangerous for Nigeria,” a security expert noted.
In response, troops from Operation Fansan Yanma, alongside police tactical teams and community guards, have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, combing bush paths and border routes between Nigeria and Niger Republic.
The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division has claimed progress in dismantling Lakurawa camps in Sokoto and Kebbi, but the latest attack underscores the challenges in curbing the group’s influence.
The assault has reignited calls for stronger counterterrorism measures and community cooperation to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty and lack of basic amenities, which make rural areas vulnerable to extremist recruitment. Residents of Kwallajiya and surrounding communities are living in fear, with many urging security agencies to bolster their presence to prevent further bloodshed.
Nigeria grapples with this emerging threat, the Lakurawa’s reign of terror continues to disrupt lives, displace families, and threaten food security in the region.
The federal and state governments face mounting pressure to devise effective strategies to neutralize the group and restore peace to Sokoto’s border communities.
