The Federal High Court in Abuja has officially declared the Lakurawa sect a terrorist organization and issued a proscription order against its activities. This decision came after the Federal Government, through the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, filed an ex-parte application seeking the court’s intervention.
Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the ruling, also extended the proscription to other similar groups operating in Nigeria, particularly in the North West and North Central regions. The court stated that the activities of these groups, including the Lakurawa sect, amounted to acts of terrorism.
The ruling stated, “It is hereby ordered as follows: That an order is hereby made declaring the activities of the Lakurawa Sect and other similar groups In any part of Nigeria, especially in the North West and North Central Regions of Nigeria as acts of terrorism and illegality.” The court also directed that the proscription be published in the Official Gazette and two national newspapers to ensure public awareness.
The proscription order further barred any individual or group from participating in activities linked to the Lakurawa sect or other similar organizations, regardless of the names they operate under.
The court detailed several criminal acts associated with such groups, including kidnapping for ransom, mass abduction, banditry, cattle rustling, and sexual violence, noting the severe harm these activities have caused to Nigerian citizens and communities.
The Federal Government, represented by Assistant Director of the Federal Ministry of Justice, David Kaswe, presented evidence supporting the application.
According to an affidavit filed by Michael Akawu, a litigation officer in the Department of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF), the Lakurawa sect has been involved in terrorism-related activities such as attacking government officials and security personnel, spreading their ideology among local communities, and urging defiance of lawful authorities.
The affidavit further noted, “These acts have caused harm, injuries and loss of lives and properties to innocent citizens of Nigeria.” The government stated that the sect poses a significant threat to national security and public peace, prompting the need for swift legal action.
The Federal Government argued that the Lakurawa sect met the criteria for proscription under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, stressing that its designation as a terrorist organization is crucial to safeguarding the nation’s peace and security.
