The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has deployed a Special Operations Brigade to Sokoto and Kebbi States as part of intensified efforts to eliminate the Lakurawas sect.
This move builds on the ongoing Operation Forest Sanity III (Chase Lakurawas Out), aimed at restoring peace and security in the region.
Addressing the troops on December 13, 2024, Brigadier General Ibikunle Ajose, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, conveyed directives from Theatre Commander Major General Oluyinka Soyele. He urged the troops to focus on the complete destruction of the sect, adhere to rules of engagement, and ensure the safety of law-abiding citizens.
General Ajose emphasized that the deployed troops had undergone specialized training for this mission, highlighting the nation’s reliance on their professionalism and capability to secure the affected areas.
Prior to this deployment, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted precursor operations targeting sect hideouts across key locations, including Rumji Dutse, Sarma, Tsauna, and Magara forests, as well as villages in Illela, Tangaza, and Binji Local Government Areas. These efforts resulted in the destruction of 22 camps, neutralization of sect members, and recovery of rifles and ammunition, including 409 PKT 7.62mm NATO and 94 7.62mm special rounds.
The deployment of the Special Operations Brigade is expected to further weaken the sect’s activities and restore stability to the affected communities in Sokoto, Kebbi, and the wider Northwest region.
