The recent nomination of General Christopher Musa as Nigeria’s new Defence Minister comes amid a growing security crisis in the North-West and North-Central regions. The Lakurawa group, a notorious armed organization, has been terrorizing communities, forcing millions to live in fear.
The Rise of Lakurawa
Lakurawa, initially welcomed as a local vigilante group, has evolved into a sophisticated insurgent machine, wielding fear, coercion, and religious extremism. The group’s entrenchment is a result of years of governance failure, corruption, and politicization of security appointments.
A Call to Action
General Musa, a seasoned military leader, must recognize Lakurawa as a burgeoning proto-insurgency, not just common bandits. The Federal High Court’s proscription of the group provides the necessary legal framework for decisive action. The new Defence Minister must act with urgency, implementing reforms and restoring government legitimacy in affected areas.
Key Recommendations
– Unified command and intelligence-led operations
– Restoration of civil administration and public services
– Accountability for enabling corruption and governance failures
– Decisive military action against Lakurawa
The clock is ticking. Nigeria cannot afford complacency. General Musa’s appointment is a chance to turn the tide against Lakurawa and restore security.
