Kebbi Villages Not Under Bandits’ Control – Deputy Gov

Kebbi State’s Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, has dismissed the reports claiming villages in the northern regions of the state are under the control of bandits, characterizing such assertions as fabrications originating from online news outlets.

He highlighted that the state government has enhanced security measures throughout communities to avert any potential security threats.

While speaking to reporters in Birnin Kebbi, Senator Tafida recounted a tragic event in Mera village, located in the Augie Local Government Area, where bandits killed 17 young individuals who courageously confronted them.

Despite this tragedy, the defenders managed to inflict significant injuries on several of the assailants.

Senator Tafida reassured the residents of Kebbi regarding the government’s dedication to their safety, encouraging citizens to work in partnership with security forces to eradicate banditry and other forms of criminality.

He reiterated that the administration, led by Governor Idris Nasir, will persist in executing effective strategies to safeguard all inhabitants.

‘New Terror Group, Lakurawa Replaces Traditional Rulers, Serve As Judge In Kebbi’

Meanwhile, human rights activist, Audu Bulama Bukarti has raised alarm over the activities of a newly identified terror group, Lakurawa, which he claims has assumed the role of traditional rulers in some communities in Kebbi State.

According to Bukarti, the group has taken over key local functions, acting as mediators and arbitrators among residents.

Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics Today on Monday, Bukarti revealed that Lakurawa has been operating in Nigeria for six years.

He warned of the potential risks posed by the group, stating, “They are potentially dangerous.”

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.”