Lakurawa Sect Proscribed as Terrorist Organization
In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja has declared the Lakurawa sect a terrorist organization and banned its activities across Nigeria.
The court’s decision also extends to other groups with similar objectives, particularly in the North-West and North-Central regions.
Justice James Omotosho issued the ruling following an ex-parte originating summons filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.
Key Orders from the Court
Justice Omotosho granted four major orders, including:
1. Proscription of the Lakurawa Sect: Declaring their activities as acts of terrorism and banning their operations across Nigeria.
2. Ban on Similar Groups: Proscribing other groups involved in banditry, kidnapping, mass abduction, cattle rustling, and other violent acts.
3. Publication of Proscription Orders: Mandating that the proscription be published in the official gazette and two national dailies.
4. Restriction on Activities: Preventing individuals or groups from supporting or participating in any activities associated with the Lakurawa sect.
Details of Terrorist Activities
An affidavit supporting the AGF’s application, filed by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, outlined the sect’s involvement in:
Cattle rustling and kidnapping for ransom.
Hostage-taking and attacks on government officials.
Propagation of ideologies that undermine authorities.
The affidavit emphasized that the group’s activities have caused significant harm, including loss of lives, injuries, and destruction of properties.
A Threat to National Security
Assistant Director in the Federal Ministry of Justice, David Kaswe, highlighted that the sect’s actions pose a severe threat to Nigeria’s national security and public peace.
He stressed that their activities meet the legal criteria for classification as a terrorist organization under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.
This ruling is a critical step in curbing terrorism and promoting security in Nigeria, particularly in regions affected by the group’s activities.
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