News
Sheikh Gumi Outlines Plan for FG to Tackle Lakurawa Terrorist Group
Islamic scholar and prominent preacher, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has urged the Nigerian government to create a specialized paramilitary force to effectively address the growing threat posed by the Lakurawa terrorist group in the northern region of the country.
Speaking during a program on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, Gumi emphasized that the ideology of the Lakurawa group is similar to that of other extremist organizations, pointing to their recent violent activities, particularly in Mera Community, Kebbi State.
Gumi criticized the Nigerian military’s capacity to handle the unique challenges of counter-terrorism, asserting that the current military structure is not designed to tackle insurgencies like Lakurawa. He argued that the military is more equipped to confront traditional state-to-state conflicts rather than non-state actors like terrorists or bandits. “Our military is modeled on the British Army system, designed for conventional warfare, not counter-terrorism operations. It excels in traditional battles against other nations, but when it comes to fighting bandits or terror groups, it’s not suited to the task,” Gumi explained. He suggested that a new, specialized force composed of personnel more familiar with the local terrain and dynamics of insurgency would be more effective in addressing the threat posed by the Lakurawa group.
Sheikh Gumi also raised concerns about the involvement of foreign powers in the ongoing violence, citing Nigeria’s rich mineral resources and fertile lands as potential incentives for external actors to destabilize the region. He suggested that some foreign entities may intentionally incite chaos to create a justification for intervention, after which Nigeria could be forced to seek their protection. “These foreign powers are aware of Nigeria’s wealth, and their interference can further exacerbate local conflicts, which ultimately leads to a situation where the country feels compelled to seek external protection,” he noted.
The scholar also touched on the socio-economic factors that contribute to the rise of extremism, particularly among the youth. Gumi attributed the recruitment of young people into terrorist groups like Lakurawa to widespread illiteracy and economic hardship. He called on the government to establish more educational institutions, similar to the Almajiri schools introduced by former President Goodluck Jonathan, as a means of addressing the root causes of radicalization.
Furthermore, Gumi emphasized the need for the government to secure Nigeria’s borders and reduce the economic difficulties that many Nigerians face, as these conditions make the population vulnerable to recruitment by extremist groups. He warned that the ongoing insurgencies, including the Boko Haram and ISWAP conflicts, already stretch the military’s resources, and the emergence of another terrorist faction would further destabilize the country. “Nigeria is already battling several insurgent groups. Another terror group could overwhelm our already stretched military and deepen instability,” he said.
In conclusion, Sheikh Gumi urged the Nigerian government to take immediate and strategic action to address these pressing security concerns, arguing that without targeted efforts to combat terrorism and its underlying causes, the country’s military and its citizens will continue to face significant threats.
Crude oil prices have dropped below $57, following a previous rate of $59.78.
This decline coincides with the imposition of tariffs on several countries by US President Donald Trump.
A report from West Texas Intermediate attributes this price slump to consistent 6% reductions observed last week.
JPMorgan Chase & Co has warned that these tariffs could likely push both the US and global economies into a recession this year.
The financial institution explained that the tariffs, set to take effect this week, are expected to have widespread economic repercussions.
Market analysts and the business community have expressed concerns about the negative implications of these measures, predicting a slowdown in economic activities and a subsequent decline in oil demand.
The military government of Niger has continued its efforts to cut ties with France.
In its latest move, it has officially designated Hausa as the country’s new national language.
Previously, French had served as the central and official language of the nation.
This new development was announced in a charter released on March 31 and published in a special edition of the government’s official journal.
According to the document, the national language is Hausa,” while “the working languages are English and French.”
Before this announcement, Hausa was already widely spoken in Niger, particularly in regions such as Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua.
Out of the country’s estimated population of 26 million, the vast majority speak and understand Hausa.
In contrast, only around three million people— roughly 13 percent — can speak French.
The new charter also recognises nine other local languages, including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, as “spoken languages of Niger.”
Additionally, the government has withdrawn from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, a group similar to the Commonwealth that supports French-speaking nations.
In January, French President Emmanuel Macron criticised African leaders for what he described as a lack of gratitude.
Speaking about developments in the region, Macron said: “We had a relationship based on security — it was twofold. On one hand, it was our commitment to fighting terrorism since 2013. We were right, though I think someone forgot to say thank you. It’s okay, it will come with time.
“Ungratefulness, I know too well, is a disease that cannot be transmitted to men. But I say this for all African heads of state who have lacked courage in the face of public opinion.”
“None of them would be sovereign countries today if the French army hadn’t been deployed in the region. My heart goes out to all our soldiers, some of whom have given their lives and fought for years.”
“We did the right thing. We left because there were coups. We were there at the request of sovereign states who asked France to come.”
“From the moment there were coups and the people stated their objectives no longer involved fighting terrorism — or were unclear— France no longer had a place there.”
It’s worth recalling that in December 2023, Niger Republic officially expelled French troops from the country.
A football celebration turned awry on Tuesday evening in Calabar as Police Inspector Stephen Enang reportedly slumped and died shortly after watching Arsenal defeat Real Madrid 3-0 at a local viewing centre.
The late officer, a native of Ekori in Yakurr LGA of Cross River State and attached to the Akim Police Division, was described as a devoted Arsenal fan.
Eyewitnesses said he was visibly ecstatic during the match, jumping in celebration after each goal. However, after the final whistle, friends noticed he remained seated and unresponsive.
Enang was rushed to the Police Hospital in Akim, but efforts to revive him failed, and he was pronounced dead.
Known for his calm demeanor and love for football, his sudden passing shocked those who knew him. As of press time, the state police command had yet to release an official statement.
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