Justice Served: Federal High Court Bans Lakurawa Sect and Similar Terror Groups
A Federal High Court in Abuja made a significant legal ruling on Wednesday, officially declaring the Lakurawa sect a terrorist organization and banning its existence across Nigeria. This decision also applies to other groups in the North-West and North-Central regions that share similar goals and engage in violent criminal activities.
The ruling, delivered by Justice James Omotosho, followed an ex-parte originating summons filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN. The court declared that the activities of the Lakurawa sect, along with other like-minded groups, amount to terrorism and are illegal under Nigerian law. The ruling also mandated the publication of the court’s order in the Official Gazette and two national dailies, notifying the public of the ban.
Justice Omotosho emphasized that any individuals or groups associated with Lakurawa, regardless of the names they use, are now legally prohibited from participating in any activities related to the sect’s objectives. This includes actions like banditry, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and the abduction of children, among other criminal acts.
The Legal Action
The AGF had sought the court’s intervention through a motion filed on January 13, supported by an affidavit from Michael Akawu, who detailed the sect’s involvement in acts of terrorism. These actions included cattle rustling, kidnapping for ransom, and the targeted attacks on government officials and security personnel. The affidavit outlined the harm caused to innocent citizens, leading to significant loss of life and property.
The court’s ruling highlighted the serious threat posed by the Lakurawa sect and similar groups to Nigeria’s national security, public order, and the safety of its citizens. In granting the AGF’s requests, the court made clear that the objectives of such organizations, including violent acts against communities and the targeting of vulnerable individuals, will not be tolerated.
A Significant Step in Combating Terrorism
The decision marks an important milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism. By formally recognizing the Lakurawa sect as a terrorist group, the court has strengthened the country’s legal framework against insurgent and criminal activities that have plagued several regions. The ruling also underscores the government’s commitment to protecting citizens from groups that threaten public peace and national stability.
In its pursuit of justice, the Federal High Court has sent a powerful message that no group or individual will be allowed to operate freely if their actions endanger the lives of Nigerians.
