Controversial Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has called on the Federal Government to establish a dedicated paramilitary outfit to tackle the rising threat posed by the Lakurawa sect in Nigeria’s northern region.
Gumi made the suggestion during an appearance on Eagle 102.5 FM’s current affairs program, Frontline, on Tuesday, November 26.
His comments follow reports that the sect, which primarily operates in Sokoto and Kebbi states in the North West, has expanded into Niger and Kaduna states, intensifying fears of a growing insurgency.
Speaking on the sect’s ideology, Gumi noted that it remains unclear.
However, he likened the group’s violent activities, including a recent attack on Mera Community in Kebbi State that claimed 17 lives, to those of other extremist groups operating in the Sahel region.
“There are some foreign superpowers in this,” Gumi alleged.
“Nigeria is rich with mineral resources and fertile lands. They [foreign powers] come and cause mayhem so we can seek their protection afterward.”
The cleric, who serves as the Mufti and Mufassir at Sultan Bello Central Mosque in Kaduna, criticized the Nigerian military’s capacity to combat terrorism effectively.
He argued that the military is structured to fight traditional wars and is ill-equipped to address asymmetric threats like the Lakurawa sect.
“Our military is modeled after the British Army; it is designed to fight another military, not insurgents or bandits,” Gumi said.
“If Niger Republic were to invade Nigeria, we would send our military. But expecting them to handle bandits and sects is asking too much.”
Gumi proposed the creation of a paramilitary unit comprising locals who are familiar with the terrain.
He cited the use of paramilitary forces in Bangladesh to infiltrate and counter terrorist groups as an example Nigeria could emulate.
The scholar also linked the recruitment of young Nigerians into the Lakurawa sect to widespread illiteracy and economic hardship.
Responding to comments by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, who blamed residents for harboring the sect, Gumi emphasized the systemic failures driving the crisis.
“The young recruits are lured with money, food, and sometimes cattle,” Gumi explained.
“This is compounded by international backing, evident in the large amounts given to recruits.”
He advocated for reviving education initiatives like the Almajiri schools established by former President Goodluck Jonathan and implementing robust poverty alleviation programs.
Gumi also stressed the need to secure Nigeria’s porous borders to prevent further incursions.
The Lakurawa sect first emerged in 2018 in northwest Nigeria, initially gaining the trust of locals by helping them combat armed bandits.
However, relations soured when the group began stealing cattle and attempting to impose strict Islamic law.
They subsequently retreated to border areas near Niger and Mali but have periodically re-entered Nigeria to launch attacks.
Nigeria is already grappling with multiple security challenges, including Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and armed bandit groups.
Gumi warned that the emergence of another insurgency could further destabilize the region and overstretch Nigeria’s already burdened military.
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