The armed group Lakurawa has sharply escalated its operations in early 2026, shifting from a localised movement in northwest Nigeria to coordinated and strategic attacks across multiple states, according to security sources and local authorities.

Mass Killings in Kwara State

In February, gunmen identified as Lakurawa members carried out coordinated assaults on the villages of Woro and Noko in Kwara State in western Nigeria.

At least 162 people, including women and children, were killed, local officials said. Witnesses reported that residents were gathered, bound and executed, while shops were set ablaze.

Local authorities said the attack was believed to be retaliation after villagers refused to allow the group to deliver sermons in local mosques.

Attacks in Kebbi State

In late January and early February, Lakurawa launched a series of attacks on border communities in Kebbi State.

Dozens of students were abducted from rural schools, officials said, in tactics reminiscent of those used by Boko Haram. Thousands of cattle were also reportedly looted to finance operations, displacing large numbers of farmers.

Assaults in Sokoto and Kaduna

In January, the group carried out night raids on police posts in the Tangaza and Gudu areas of Sokoto State to seize weapons and ammunition, security officials said.

Security sources also reported coordination with local criminal gangs to target churches in Kaduna State, where nearly 200 people were abducted. Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were allegedly used to hinder the arrival of Nigerian military reinforcements.

Officials said the group used small reconnaissance drones ahead of some attacks, signalling an increase in technical capability.

Shift Toward Islamic State Affiliation

Emerging in late 2024 in rural Sokoto State, Lakurawa was initially seen as a vigilante movement invited by local communities to counter armed bandits.

However, the Nigerian military says the group has since evolved into an extremist organisation linked to Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Authorities say it now imposes levies described as “zakat” and enforces strict rules in areas under its influence.

Security reports indicate fighters from Niger and Mali have joined its ranks, contributing to cross-border expansion.

Security Response

The Nigerian air force has conducted air strikes in the forests of Sokoto and Kebbi in January and February, targeting suspected camps.

U.S. officials said strikes carried out in December 2025 in Sokoto State were aimed at senior Lakurawa figures to prevent the group’s expansion toward strategic infrastructure.

The group’s evolution from a local vigilante force into an ideologically driven armed organisation represents one of the most significant security developments in northwest Nigeria.