The military has revealed plans to reintegrate surrendered bandits and terrorists in the North-West region following the deployment of Special Forces to combat the Lakurawa terrorist group. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, stated that the Army is determined to neutralize the threat posed by Lakurawa and other criminal groups in the area.
The initiative, known as ‘Operation Safe Corridor North-West,’ aims to rehabilitate and reintegrate repentant bandits in the region, mirroring a similar program in the North-East for Boko Haram insurgents. The program has seen success with the surrender of several top terrorists.
The deployment of Special Forces and coordinated air and ground offensives are part of efforts to dismantle Lakurawa’s networks. The military also plans to collaborate with local communities to enhance intelligence gathering and foster a united front against terrorist groups.
In addition to military operations, the Army is prioritizing the well-being of its personnel by implementing systematic troop rotations to prevent fatigue and boost morale. The Army Chief emphasized the importance of welfare support for soldiers and their families, including those of fallen heroes.
The ongoing operations have shown promising results, with significant successes recorded in clearing hideouts and neutralizing sect members. Residents in affected communities have expressed gratitude for the restored peace and security brought by the military presence.
The Sokoto State Government has pledged its support for the military’s efforts to eliminate Lakurawa in the state. The collaboration between the Federal Government and the state is yielding positive results in the fight against the militants. Community cooperation and sharing of vital information are emphasized to further enhance security measures in the region.