Lakurawa terrorists have allegedly issued directions to people of Zugurma community in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State during a Sunday visit, demanding that girls aged 15 and above must be married off while also establishing bride price (sadaki) at N1,500.
According to neighborhood accounts, the armed men arrived openly in broad daylight and spent several hours in the area addressing neighbors and spreading their philosophy.
Reporters recently noticed that Lakurawa fighters have been traveling freely over Borgu settlements, frightening individuals who defy their teachings.
Residents said the group used the event to announce what it characterized as regulations for the neighborhood.
One source reported, “They stayed for hours preaching. They ordered any female above 15 must be married off and bride price should be N1,500.”
Zugurma villagers viewed the action as part of an attempt to exert control over local communities.
The area is said to be strategically located along the main road linking Borgu to Mokwa, a key route connecting the region to other regions of the country.
Witnesses also recounted that weeks previously, alleged Lakurawa fighters in their hundreds were spotted moving from Kebbi State into Borgu on motorbikes, with reports alleging convoys of armed men operating freely without resistance.
Residents cautioned that various rural and woodland settlements in Borgu are becoming increasingly exposed as armed groups spread their presence across the region, prompting fears of further insecurity if urgent action is not taken.
One of Nigeria’s largest landmasses, Borgu LGA shares vast forest boundaries with Kaiama and Baruten in Kwara State, as well as portions of Bagudo in Kebbi State, which residents claim are challenging to secure because of their topography.
The influence of armed organizations in the area is growing, according to community members, who also accused authorities of not responding sufficiently in spite of repeated warnings.
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