The National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) has downplayed concerns surrounding the newly emerged terrorist group, Lukarawa, describing it as a minor threat with fewer than 150 members. The group’s recruitment efforts are aimed at expanding its ranks, but the NCTC remains confident that the threat posed by Lukarawa is manageable and will be neutralized in due course.
The Defence Headquarters recently confirmed the presence of Lukarawa in Nigeria’s northern region, specifically in Sokoto and Kebbi states, with members infiltrating the area from the Niger Republic and Mali, particularly after the recent coup in Niger.
Maj Gen Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the NCTC, spoke to journalists in Abuja, assuring the public that the group’s presence should not be exaggerated. He emphasized that their total numbers are limited, and ongoing counter-terrorism efforts would soon render Lukarawa inconsequential. Laka further advised against spreading undue fear about the group’s activities, which he described as “not as bad as it’s being reported.”
Laka also pointed out that Lukarawa’s attempts to expand its influence beyond Sokoto and Kebbi were unlikely to succeed due to their limited manpower. He stressed, “How many are they? 150 to 200 people cannot terrorize large areas like Sokoto or Kebbi, let alone extend into Kaduna.”
The NCTC chief reassured the public that the Nigerian government is actively addressing the situation with intelligence and security measures. He emphasized that Nigerian intelligence agencies were working diligently to provide timely and actionable intelligence to counter the group’s activities. Additionally, Laka highlighted strengthened security collaboration with neighboring countries to ensure a unified approach to regional threats.
Laka also mentioned the deployment of advanced technology and joint military operations to monitor and neutralize non-state armed groups. These efforts have already led to the neutralization and capture of several militants. He further noted that heightened security protocols were in place in high-risk areas to ensure that Nigeria stays ahead of potential threats.
