A newly emerging terrorist organization known as “Lakurawas,” or the Mujahidin, has reportedly seized substantial control over five local government areas in Sokoto State, Nigeria.
Sources indicate to Vanguard that the group is imposing zakat and other forms of levies on local communities.
According to Investopedia, Zakat is an Islamic finance term referring to the obligation that an individual donate a certain proportion of their wealth each year to charitable causes.
Bellnews understands that these affected local government areas include Tangaza, Gada, Illela, Silame, and Binji.
Witnesses report that the militants, who are heavily armed, communicate using a range of languages such as Hausa, Fulani, Tuareg, Kanuri, Tuba, and English.
Residents describe how the group arrives in large numbers, often using motorcycles. They leave a contingent behind to collect taxes and compel residents to harvest crops and supply food.
Those who resist face severe consequences, including the confiscation of livestock.
“We know when they are coming because they appear in significant numbers, usually on 10 to 15 motorcycles. After assessing the area, they station some members to oversee operations while others continue to different locations,” one local source shared.
Alhaji Isa Salihu Kalenjeni, Chairman of Tangaza Local Government Area, confirmed the militants’ presence and their coercive tactics.
“They are forcing people to pay zakat while simultaneously robbing them. Recently, a shop owner was robbed of N2 million. His car was also taken and returned only after he paid N350,000,” Kalenjeni stated.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted the group’s affiliation with ISIS in the Sahel region, emphasizing that they exploit Nigeria’s porous borders with Niger and Mali.
He urged residents to report unusual activities, warning: “This is similar to the early days of Boko Haram. However, this time, we are taking action from the beginning. We are locating and neutralizing their positions. The key lesson here is to report any suspicious individuals or activities to the authorities before the situation escalates.”
General Buba further explained, “The group capitalized on the porous borders with the Niger Republic, extending to Mali, especially following the recent coup in Niger. These border vulnerabilities have facilitated their movement into Sokoto and Kebbi states, complicating joint border security efforts. Now, we have a clearer understanding of their locations and are responding accordingly.”