Experts Debunk CP’s Claim Linking Lakurawa to Dansadau Explosions
By: Zagazola Makama
Recent explosions in Dansadau district, Maru Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State, initially attributed to the Lakurawa terrorist group, have been dismissed as inaccurate by security experts and local sources. The claims, made by the Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Shehu Dalijan, during a press briefing, have been described as unsubstantiated and misleading.
Multiple intelligence reports and credible sources confirm that the Lakurawa group, a criminal organization operating predominantly in Sokoto State and Kebbi state has no presence in Zamfara. Several sources assert that the group has concentrated its activities in Tangaza, Gudu, and Silame LGAs of Sokoto, with sporadic operations in Marake and Illela near the Niger Republic border. Since intensified military operations in these areas, by the troops of Operation Fansan Yanma with its Air Component, Lakurawa members have reportedly fled toward Niger Republic, vacating their traditional strongholds.
“There is no evidence to support Lakurawa’s involvement in the Dansadau explosions,” stated sources familiar with operations in the Northwest. “Their activities have been confined to Sokoto State and Kebbi and there has been report of their movement towards the Dansadau axis. Similarly, there was no reports indicating their use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) since they came to the North West.
The sources said that for years, local bandit groups have sought Boko Haram’s expertise in crafting and deploying IEDs. However, sources indicate that Boko Haram factions have largely resisted these overtures, with the exception of Dogo Gide, a bandit leader who has incorporated some Boko Haram elements into his ranks.
“The attack on the Dansadau road bears the hallmarks of Boko Haram’s tactics rather than the Lakurawa group. “This suggests a possible shift, with Boko Haram now willing to share its explosive expertise with certain bandit groups.”
Analysts also questioned the strategic purpose of the attack, pointing out that the vehicles targeted were not carrying passengers or security forces, a typical hallmark of insurgent tactics. “This doesn’t align with Lakurawa’s operational style or any known strategic objectives,” noted another expert.
The Dansadau axis is controlled by bandit groups such as Ada Allero around the Yan Lotton Daji, who are loyal to Alhaji Dogo Gide. These groups frequently conduct attacks in Zamfara and Katsina border areas but have no known affiliates with LAKURAWA.
Critics argue that the CP’s statement may have been designed to exaggerate the Lakurawa group’s threat, creating unnecessary fear among the populace. “There’s no intelligence to support Lakurawa’s involvement in Dansadau.This appears to be an attempt to bolster the group’s reputation, which doesn’t align with ground realities.”
