A Federal High Court in Abuja has officially declared the Lakurawa sect a terrorist organization and proscribed its activities, along with similar groups, across Nigeria, particularly in the north-west and north-central regions.
The ruling, delivered by Justice James Omotosho, came after an ex parte application filed by Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, in case FHC/ABJ/CS/41/2025. The application, moved by David Kaswe, an assistant director in the Federal Ministry of Justice, sought to address the sect’s violent actions.
According to an affidavit presented by Michael Akawu, a litigation officer in the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Lakurawa sect has been linked to numerous acts of terrorism, including cattle rustling, kidnapping for ransom, hostage-taking, attacks on security personnel, and incitement of local communities to defy authorities.
The sect gained notoriety following a string of violent attacks, including a November 2024 assault on Mera village in Kebbi State, where over 15 people were killed, and many others were injured.
Justice Omotosho declared:
- The Lakurawa sect’s activities, including banditry, mass abductions, and attacks on communities, are acts of terrorism.
- The sect and similar groups are banned from operating anywhere in Nigeria, either collectively or individually, under any name or guise.
- The proscription will be published in the official gazette and two national newspapers.
The judge further prohibited any individuals or groups from engaging in activities related to the sect’s agenda, including kidnapping for ransom, sexual violence, cattle rustling, and destruction of lives and property.
This decision aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to tackling insecurity in regions plagued by terrorism and violent crime.
