The Federal High Court in Abuja has officially declared the Lakurawa sect a terrorist organization, extending the proscription to similar groups across Nigeria. The ban specifically targets activities in the North West and North Central regions, where the sect has been most active.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment following an ex-parte application filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN. The application, moved on behalf of the government by Assistant Director David Kaswe, detailed the Lakurawa sect’s involvement in acts of terrorism, including cattle rustling, kidnapping, and attacks on communities and security personnel.
Justice Omotosho’s ruling explicitly prohibits the existence of the Lakurawa sect and similar groups in any form, stating, “An order is issued declaring the activities of the Lakurawa sect and similar groups in any part of Nigeria, particularly in the North West and North Central regions, as acts of terrorism and illegality.”
The court also banned individuals and groups from participating in activities that promote the sect’s objectives, citing their role in banditry, mass abductions, forced marriage, and widespread violence.
### **Grounds for Proscription**
The Attorney-General’s application was supported by an affidavit from Michael Akawu, a litigation officer at the Department of Public Prosecutions. Akawu outlined how the Lakurawa sect undermines national security and public peace, detailing their efforts to spread ideology, incite rebellion, and harm local communities.
“The activities of the Lakurawa sect pose a grave threat to Nigeria’s security and sovereignty,” Akawu noted. He added that proscribing the group under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act aligns with the best interests of justice and national security.
The court directed the government to publish the proscription order in the official gazette and at least two national newspapers to ensure public awareness. This move aims to prevent individuals and organizations from associating with the sect under any guise.
The ruling underscores Nigeria’s commitment to tackling terrorism and restoring peace, particularly in regions plagued by insecurity. Security experts have lauded the decision as a critical step toward addressing the root causes of violence and safeguarding lives and property.
While the court’s decision is a significant milestone, stakeholders have urged the government to complement it with robust intelligence gathering, community engagement, and sustained military operations to neutralize remaining threats.
