Audu Bulama Bukarti, a renowned human rights activist, has sounded the alarm on a newly identified terror group, Lakurawa, operating in Kebbi State, Nigeria.
Cyber Reporters gathered that this group has allegedly taken over traditional ruling roles in some communities, mediating and arbitrating disputes among residents.
Bukarti in an interview revealed that Lakurawa has been active in Nigeria for six years, warning that the group poses potential risks, deeming them “potentially dangerous.
He said it is crucial to understand the implications of Lakurawa’s actions, as they undermine the authority of legitimate traditional rulers and potentially create power vacuums.
Bukarti said:
“You know Boko Haram became a transnational terror group and nothing was done until after it had operated for many years. And had gathered experience, arms and money through kidnapping and other terrorism activities.
“This one is not up to the level of Boko Haram in terms of sophistication, lethality, experience and connection. But they are potentially very dangerous.
“You can’t travel five kilometers in one local government in Kebbi State without encountering Lakurawa on your way. All the villages surrounding the local government headquarters are under the control of Lakurawa.
“As we speak, they are serving as judges for local people. If you have a local problem, a dispute with your neighbour, you report to them because they have forbidden traditional rulers from intervening in any dispute that is brought to them. Traditional rulers have no option but to obey them because they will kill them if they don’t obey their instruction.
“If farmers have their farms encroached by herders, they report to Lakurawa. And Lakurawa summon the parties, adjudicate the dispute and order compensation against those they found wanting.”
