The Senate has expressed concern over the infiltration of terrorists from Mali and Burkina Faso, identified as Lakurawa, into several Nigerian states, including Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Niger.
The development has been described as a troubling international threat to the region.
During a plenary session yesterday, senators called on the military to establish early warning mechanisms to prevent further incursions. They also urged sustained vigilance and collaboration with local communities to curb the spread of the terrorist group.
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Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, who sponsored the motion alongside Senators Adamu Aliero and Garba Musa Maidoki, highlighted the gravity of the situation. “The Senate is aware that a group of terrorists from neighbouring Burkina Faso and Mali, known as Lakurawa, has infiltrated the country through the Nigeria-Niger border at Illela, Tangaza, and Silame Local Government Areas of Sokoto,” Abdullahi stated.
The Senate observed a minute of silence for victims of recent attacks in Kebbi, where over 20 people were killed, and properties worth millions destroyed. Abdullahi commended the state government for providing relief to affected families but stressed the need for urgent federal intervention.
Former Sokoto governor, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, noted that this was not the group’s first attack, recalling similar incidents in 2018. He called for decisive action, warning of the group’s international connections and advanced weaponry.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin described the infiltration as a dangerous development, emphasizing the need for the government to act swiftly. Senator Aliero reinforced this urgency, urging the Senate to revisit and implement past resolutions to combat terrorism effectively.
Military engagement in Borno
Meanwhile, Defence Headquarters confirmed the death of five soldiers in an ambush by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Borno’s Gubio Local Government Area. Major General Edward Buba disclosed that troops neutralized 30 insurgents during the encounter, supported by an air component.
The attack occurred as special military forces prepared to facilitate the return of displaced villagers. Despite initial casualties, subsequent reinforcements inflicted significant losses on the terrorists, ensuring the area remained under military control.
The Senate commended the military for their response but called for enhanced strategies to safeguard lives and properties across affected regions.
