Igbo Group  Tells  Federal Government to Crush Emerging Terror Group LAKURAWA

Maidawa Musa

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, has expressed grave concern over the rising threat of a new terrorist group, LAKURAWA, operating in Nigeria’s Northwest region, particularly in Kebbi and Sokoto States.

In a statement issued by Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the organization emphasized that LAKURAWA’s emergence has rapidly escalated into a direct threat against the safety, dignity, and livelihood of Igbo people in the region. The group has reportedly displaced traditional rulers in Kebbi State, assuming their roles and spreading fear instead of upholding the law.

The situation is dire, with Igbo communities facing constant harassment, robberies, and violent assaults, resulting in tragic loss of life. The organization urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take comprehensive action, specifically tasking Dr. Bello Matawelle, Minister of State for Defence, to implement decisive measures to quell the rebellion.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed confidence in Dr. Matawelle’s ability to address the threat, citing his retention in the Cabinet as a demonstration of presidential trust in his national security management skills. The organization warns that underestimating LAKURAWA’s potential for escalation would be detrimental, drawing parallels with Boko Haram’s rapid growth.

*Key Demands:*

– _Immediate Deployment of Resources_: Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls on President Tinubu to deploy necessary resources to aid Dr. Matawelle and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
– _Robust Military Response_: The organization urges Dr. Matawelle and Ribadu to relocate to the Northwest and orchestrate a decisive military response against LAKURAWA.
– _Federal Government Action_: Ohanaeze Ndigbo implores the Federal Government to acknowledge the gravity of the situation and act with urgency.

The organization reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the safety and well-being of Igbo people, emphasizing the need for collective action against terrorism.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo is a socio-cultural organization formed in 1976 to represent the interests of all Igbo communities within and outside Nigeria ¹.