Military Headquarters Says 'Lakurawa' Terrorists Using Social Media, Welfare Packages To Recruit More Nigerian Youths

The Defence Headquarters, Abuja, has stated that it is aware of the recruitment activities of a newly formed Jihadist group known as 'Lakurawa'  using the social media and welfare packages. 

The Jihadist group had reportedly been imposing taxes and levies on communities in Sokoto State, Northwest Nigeria.

SaharaReporters learnt that heavily armed Lakurawa Islamic preachers were operating in five local government areas of the state namely Tangaza, Gudu, Ilela, Silame and Binji.

The Defence Headquarters had last Thursday confirmed the emergence of the group in the North-western part of the country.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, had disclosed this while briefing newsmen on military operations in Abuja. 

However, Buba while speaking in an interview with PUNCH on Tuesday said the military was working closely with other security agencies and the state government to halt the recruitment efforts.

He asserted that the terrorists were using sermons and welfare packages to entice the youth, adding that the terror group was also using social media to drive its recruitment efforts.

Buba said, “The group is employing social media platforms, showcasing sermons and enticing recruits with welfare packages.

“Nevertheless, we know of these plans and are working together with other security forces and the state government to thwart the efforts of the terrorists."