Nigerian court declares Lakurawa Sect a terrorist group
In a landmark ruling, a federal high court in Abuja has officially declared the Lakurawa sect a terrorist organization, marking a significant step in the fight against terrorism in the northwest and north-central regions of Nigeria.
The court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, also ordered the proscription of the sect and any similar groups operating in the country. The decision comes in the wake of a series of brutal attacks attributed to the Lakurawa sect, which has caused widespread fear and devastation in affected communities.
Last November, the group launched a violent assault on Mera village in Kebbi State, killing over 15 people and leaving many others injured. This attack was one of several that underscored the growing threat posed by the sect in recent months.
The Court’s Ruling
The ruling was delivered following an ex parte originating summons filed by Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice. Representing the AGF in court, David Kaswe, an assistant director in the Federal Ministry of Justice, presented evidence detailing the sect’s activities.
In an affidavit submitted by Michael Akawu, a litigation officer in the Department of Public Prosecutions, the Lakurawa sect was accused of engaging in terrorism-related crimes, including cattle rustling, kidnapping for ransom, attacks on security personnel, and the propagation of extremist ideologies.
“These acts have caused harm, injuries, and loss of lives and properties to innocent citizens of Nigeria,” Akawu stated. He further emphasized that the sect’s activities pose a grave threat to national security, public peace, and stability.
Comprehensive Ban and Proscription
Justice Omotosho, in his judgment, declared the activities of the Lakurawa sect and similar groups as acts of terrorism, ordering their proscription under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.
“An order is hereby made proscribing the existence of the Lakurawa sect and other similar groups in any part of Nigeria, especially in the northwest and north-central regions, either in groups or as individuals, by whatever names they are called,” the court ruling stated.
Additionally, the court ordered the publication of the proscription in the official gazette and two national newspapers to ensure public awareness.
The judgment also prohibits any individual or group from participating in activities related to the Lakurawa sect or other groups with similar objectives, including banditry, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other forms of violent crime.
The decision to proscribe the Lakurawa sect signals the government’s commitment to tackling the escalating insecurity in Nigeria’s northern regions. The ruling serves as a warning to other groups engaged in criminal activities, reaffirming that their actions will not be tolerated under the law.
