Fri Jan 10 14:11:35 UTC 2025: ## New Armed Group Lakurawa Poses Growing Threat Across Nigeria-Niger Border
**Abuja, Nigeria/Niamey, Niger –** A new armed group, Lakurawa, is escalating violence in northwestern Nigeria and across the border in Niger, posing a significant security challenge to both nations already grappling with multiple ongoing conflicts. The group, believed to have originated from Mali, has exploited strained relations between Nigeria and Niger following Niger’s July 2023 coup, expanding its territory and influence.
Lakurawa, first acknowledged by the Nigerian army in November, has carried out attacks resulting in numerous deaths. Nine suspected members have been declared wanted. While initially hired by local leaders to combat banditry in Sokoto State, Nigeria, between 2016 and 2017, the group later turned against the communities, killing a local leader who had initially invited them. They are now accused of imposing their own brand of Islamic law, collecting taxes, and distributing resources to gain support. Estimates suggest they offer new recruits up to 1 million Naira ($645).
The Nigerian military has launched air and ground operations against Lakurawa, but this has not been without incident; the military acknowledged accidentally killing 10 civilians during an air strike in December. Joint military patrols between Nigeria and Niger, previously effective in containing the group, were disrupted following the coup, providing Lakurawa with an opportunity to regroup and expand. While patrols have resumed, the lingering tensions between the two nations continue to hamper a fully coordinated response.
Accusations have flown between the two countries. Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, accused Nigeria and France of sponsoring Lakurawa, claims vehemently denied by the Nigerian government. These accusations are further entangled in the broader political fallout from the Niger coup and the shifting alliances in the Sahel region. The situation highlights the complex interplay of regional politics, trans-national armed groups, and the challenges in combating violent extremism in the region.
First Piper 