“Nigeria is effectively at war”

A former Department of State Services (DSS) operative Seyi Adetayo as reacted to the emergence of a new terror group in the northwestern states of Sokoto and Kebbi.

The new terrorist group is known as Lakurawa according to the Defence Headquarters.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Adetayo expressed concern about Lakurawa’s capabilities and urged Nigerians to recognize that the country is effectively “at war.”

Adetayo likened Lakurawa to well-established terrorist groups like ISWAP and Boko Haram, noting that Lakurawa’s presence, though new, follows familiar patterns of terrorism seen in other regions.

According to Adetayo, the situation demands that the Nigerian military and intelligence services be given expanded powers to address the threat more effectively.

“Lakurawa will be another name that will dominate our public space in terms of terror,” he warned.

Recall that Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defense Media Operations, recently confirmed that Nigerian troops have encountered Lakurawa militants in Sokoto and Kebbi.

Buba further revealed that Lakurawa has ties to terrorist networks from the Sahel region, including groups from Mali and Niger, who have reportedly moved into Nigeria due to regional instability.

Adetayo stated that there is a risk of recruitment among local youths by the new terror groups, warning that if left unchecked, the problem could further restrict movement and safety within the country.