Of Lakurawa terrorists, information mismanagement

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THE emergence of the “Lakurawa” terror group in Northwestern Nigeria has added a new layer to the country’s complex security challenges, as these militants strengthen their foothold across communities in Kebbi and Sokoto states. The recent disclosure by the Defence and Force Headquarters, which “formally” recognised Lakurawa as a terror organisation, not only introduced the group to many Nigerians but also highlighted the potential dangers of mishandling information about such threats. It is against this background that the Center for Crisis Communication (CCC) tasked the security agencies to handle the issue of Lakurawa with utmost caution and professionalism while at the same time, urged the media and public to avoid sensationalizing the matter. The Chairman of the center, Major General Chris Olukolade (retd), in a statement issued after CCC’s monthly meeting, Olukolade said the situation required swift and strategic action to prevent an escalation into a nationwide crisis with severe implications. Meanwhile, until now, Lakurawa had operated largely unnoticed, yet their growing influence signals a troubling shift in Nigeria’s already embattled security landscape. Reports trace the Lakurawa group’s origins back to October 2018, when they reportedly settled in the forests around Tangaza and Gudu Local Government Areas in Sokoto State.

When locals first raised concerns about their incursion, police investigations categorized them as armed but non-threatening seasonal herders seeking food and water for their livestock. This early dismissal allowed the group to operate under the radar, gradually embedding themselves within local communities. The manner in which security agencies, media outlets, and social platforms have handled information on this new terror group highlights a significant issue that needs critical analysis. Sensationalized coverage is indeed giving the Lakurawa group visibility, emboldening them to further terrorize their host communities. Once considered mere herders, the Lakurawa group has escalated its activities, imposing taxes, preaching extremist ideologies, and assuming roles usually reserved for traditional rulers, such as mediation and arbitration..Surprisingly, within just days after the Nigerian military officially labeled them as terrorists, the Lakurawa sect initiated violent attacks in Kebbi State. On Friday, November 8, the group reportedly killed 15 people and rustled over 100 cows in Mera town, Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State. According to Alhaji Bashir Isah Mera, a resident, “Initially, they didn’t kill; they only confiscated cows and asked owners to pay ‘Zakat’. This is their first attack in which they killed 15 people in our town.”

Was it merely a coincidence that the group became more violent soon after achieving widespread media coverage? It is possible they are using this newfound visibility to instill fear in communities and signal their presence as players in Nigeria’s complex security challenges. As they gain recognition, their actions and influence appear to intensify. Reports reveal that their first significant attack was on a military base in Sokoto, where they killed three soldiers and set a patrol vehicle ablaze. Initially, their targets were government forces, vigilantes, and rival armed groups (i.e., bandits), but recent developments indicate that unarmed civilians are also now victims of their atrocities. It is hard to believe that the Lakurawa group once received invitations from local authorities, including the District Heads of Balle in Gudu LGA and Gongono in Tangaza LGA, both in Sokoto, to protect their communities against other bandits. This connection suggests that some local leaders may have inadvertently enabled the group’s rise by legitimising its presence. These complex dynamics underline the challenges in Nigeria’s security landscape, where communities, desperate for protection, sometimes turn to dangerous actors in the absence of adequate state intervention.

In today’s interconnected world, fueled by rapid information sharing, the way media reports on terror groups critically shapes the public’s perception and response. Sensationalized coverage of groups like Lakurawa inadvertently provides them with the visibility they seek, potentially encouraging further attacks. Publicizing details about the group’s activities can become an “oxygen of publicity” that these terrorists use to maintain a fearsome reputation. A paradigm shift is necessary. Security agencies must recognize the importance of handling sensitive information with discretion. Rather than publicly announcing the existence of groups like Lakurawa, there should be a careful, strategic approach to limit their exposure. If handled quietly and without fanfare, it may prevent these groups from gaining the visibility they currently enjoy. For the sake of national interest and security, some information is best kept confidential to protect citizens and prevent unnecessary panic or sensationalism. Publicizing every detail can inadvertently play into the hands of criminals who capitalize on fear and citizens’ low morale to perpetrate further violence. Moving forward, Nigeria’s security agencies should develop robust crisis communication strategies.

Such strategies should aim to balance transparency with responsibility, sharing information only when necessary and in ways that do not strengthen criminals. By avoiding public fanfare, security agencies can effectively carry out their constitutional duties without giving terrorists an undue advantage. Furthermore, Nigeria’s media, along with its security forces, must adopt a more thoughtful and measured approach to crisis communication. This approach will prevent terrorist groups like the Lakurawas from gaining power and notoriety, ultimately fostering a safer environment for Nigerian citizens. The Department of State Services (DSS), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Police, and other security institutions must work collaboratively with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to address emerging threats to Nigeria’s security. The sooner this crisis is nipped in the bud, the better. As they say, a stitch in time saves nine!