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Court proscribes Lakurawa sect, declares it terrorist organisation

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A Federal High Court in Abuja, on Thursday, made an order proscribing the Lakurawa sect and other similar groups in any part of Nigeria, especially in the North West and North Central regions of the country.

Justice James Omotosho, in a ruling on the ex-parte originating summons filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, also declared the group as a terrorist organisation.

The judge declared: “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.

“That an order is hereby made proscribing the existence of the Lakurawa and other similar groups in any part of Nigeria, especially In the North West and North Central Regions of Nigeria either in groups or as Individuals by whatsoever names they are called and publishing same in the Official Gazette and two (2) National Dailies.

“That an order is hereby made proscribing any person or group of persons from participating in any manner whatsoever in any form of activities evolving or concerning the prosecution of the collective intention or otherwise of the Lakurawa under any other name or platform however called or described.

“That an order is hereby made proscribing ali other groups in Nigeria by whatever name called with similar objectives as the Lakurawa which Include but not limited to banditry, kidnapping for ransom, kidnapping for marriage, mass abduction of school children and other citizens, cattle rustling, enslavement, imprisonment, severe deprivation of physical liberty, torture, rape, sexual slavery, enforced prostitution, forced pregnancy, other forms of sexual violence, attacks and killings n communities , commuters and wanton destruction of lives and properties in Nigeria.”

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the AGF had, in the ex-parte application marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/41/2025, prayed the court for four orders which were granted by the court.

An Assistant Director in the Federal Ministry of Justice, David Kaswe, moved the motion dated Jan. 13 and filed Jan. 14 by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (PPF), M.B. Abubakar.

In the affidavit in support of the originating summons deposed to by Michael Akawu, a litigation officer in the Department of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (PPF), he said that he had the consent of the director of PPF to make the averments.

Akawu said that the Lakurawa sect/group had been involved in acts of terrorism, including cattle rusting, kidnapping for ransom, hostage taking, attack on top government officials, attack on security personnel, propagation of their ideology to the local communities, encouraging the locals to disregard constituted authorities, etc within Nigeria.

“That these acts have caused harm, injuries and loss of lives and properties to innocent citizens of Nigeria.

“That the activities of the Lakurawa sect/group pose a significant threat to national security, public peace and order in Nigeria,” he said.

He said he had reasonable grounds to believe that the Lakurawa sect/group met the criteria for proscription as a terrorist group under the Terrorism (Prevent and Prohibition) Act.

Akawu said it would be in the overall interest of justice, peace and security of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to proscribe the Lakurawa Sect/group.(NAN)

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Brigadier General Gora: The Symbol Of A True Leader In Southern Kaduna

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By Tambaya Julius, Abuja

In the vibrant and often turbulent political theatre of Southern Kaduna, one name consistently rises above the noise: Brigadier General Simon Katunku Gora. Renowned for his deep-rooted connection with the people and unwavering commitment to community development, Gen. Gora has carved a niche for himself as not just a politician, but a pillar of hope for many.

Unlike his peers, whose visibility fades beyond campaign posters and social media appearances, his influence is entrenched in action, generosity, and a consistent record of service. His political journey is not just one of ambition, but of purpose anchored in compassion and a tireless quest to improve the lives of his constituents.

What truly sets Gen. Simon Katunku Gora apart is his generous heart and dedication to humanitarian efforts. His volunteering programmes and charitable donations are not token gestures; they represent a core aspect of his public identity. Through countless outreach projects, Gen. Gora has provided tangible support to underprivileged communities, particularly in Southern Kaduna.

Whether it’s funding education initiatives, supporting healthcare access, or empowering local enterprises, Gen. Gora’s philanthropy extends beyond his immediate constituency. His initiatives have sparked wider conversations across Kaduna State and beyond, placing him on the map as a socially conscious and visionary leader.

One of the most powerful aspects of Gen. Simon Katunku Gora political strategy is his unmatched connection to the grassroots. He doesn’t simply speak for the people he listens, walks among them, and understands their daily struggles. His ability to relate on a personal level has fostered unity among communities that have long felt disconnected from mainstream Politicians.

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From the streets of Zango Kataf LGA to the communities of Jaba LGA, Gen. Simon Katunku Gora is not just recognised he is respected. His presence brings a sense of inclusion, and his every visit is marked by active engagement rather than ceremonial fanfare. Unlike many in the political arena, his motives have never centred on personal enrichment.

His repeated declarations that he is “not here to make wealth or seek personal gain, but to ensure that my people have access to basic amenities” are not empty promises they’re the foundation of his leadership.

He has turned these values into concrete actions. From building boreholes in underserved villages to sponsoring youths through education and vocational training, his impact can be seen and felt across the region. This selflessness has not only strengthened his reputation but also inspired a new standard for political service in Southern Kaduna.

Gen. Simon Katunku Gora leadership style is defined by hands-on involvement. While others rely on press statements and staged photo opportunities, Gen. Gora is often seen in the field, sleeves rolled up, tackling issues head-on. His proactive approach has changed the narrative around leadership shifting it from words to work.

Whether it’s mediating community disputes, launching developmental projects, or simply showing up for local events, his authenticity resonates. He exemplifies a model of leadership rooted in transparency, accountability, and direct community involvement.

Gen. Simon Katunku Gora rise to prominence is not the result of media hype, but of consistent delivery and genuine engagement. His track record speaks volumes each fulfilled promise further cements his status as Southern Kaduna’s most dependable leader.

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From policy reforms to infrastructural improvements, every achievement has been focused on elevating the quality of life for his people. This rare combination of vision, empathy, and effectiveness has made him the benchmark by which others are measured. His influence transcends political boundaries, reaching into the hearts of the people who have benefitted from his tireless work.

Every community meeting he attends, every developmental project he initiates, is a testament to a man who understands that true leadership is earned not inherited, gifted, or bought. His journey continues to inspire both emerging politicians and citizens who seek a better future for Southern Kaduna.

Brigadier General Simon Katunku Gora is not merely a popular figure he is a transformational leader. In a political environment often marred by broken promises and fleeting fame, he has remained a steadfast advocate for the people. Through compassion, dedication, and integrity, he continues to reshape the political fabric of Southern Kaduna.

His legacy is already being written not in the headlines of newspapers, but in the lives he’s changed and the communities he’s uplifted. For Southern Kaduna, Gen. Simon Katunku Gora isn’t just the most famous politician he’s the most trusted, the most effective, and the most human.

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Identify Collaborators Of Criminals, CDS Tells Southern Kaduna Stakeholders

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By Israel Bulus, Kaduna

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has urged stakeholders in Southern Kaduna to expose individuals collaborating with bandits responsible for the insecurity plaguing the region.

Musa made the call at the Southern Kaduna Solemn Assembly for Restoration held recently in Bara, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

He emphasized that lasting peace cannot be achieved unless those aiding criminal activities within the communities are identified and exposed.

“Don’t shield those working with these criminals simply because they are your children. If you do, you are enabling a system that will eventually destroy us all,” the CDS warned.

“Advise them to stop. If they refuse, report them to us so that decisive action can be taken. We need accurate and timely intelligence to restore peace to our communities,” he added.

According to Musa, the assembly provided a platform for traditional rulers to brief security authorities on developments within their domains. He assured the community that the military is ready to act on credible information.

“No matter how insignificant it may seem, let us know where they are hiding, their camps, activities, logistics channels, and their sponsors. Share this information immediately,” he said.

The Defence Chief reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Tinubu to support the military in eradicating criminal elements nationwide.

While acknowledging past mistakes and challenges, Musa appealed to the people of Southern Kaduna to embrace unity and work towards a more peaceful future.

“We must put aside our differences to achieve progress,” he said. “Politics is no longer something to shy away from. In the past, we were told it’s a dirty game, but avoiding it only harms us. If you’re not involved, you can’t effect change.”

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He encouraged youths and community leaders to participate actively in politics, not to destroy, but to build their communities and ensure better representation.

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Bring justice out of courtrooms – ECOWAS Court

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President of the Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS, Justice Ricardo Goncalves, has called for justice to be brought out of courtrooms to the heart of West African communities.

Goncalves made the call on Monday in Lagos, at the sensitisation outreach by the Community Court of Justice, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

He noted that the image of justice had long been confined to courtrooms and legal texts, adding that it was time for a change.

He said that justice must no longer be the ”language of the privileged” or ”a distant dream” but a birthright for every citizen, from the remote village to the bustling urban centres.

He added that it was essential to ask why the court needed to reach out to citizens.

According to him, justice hidden was justice denied.

He explained that when individuals, such as farmers, women, and children are unable to access justice due to distance, lack of information, or other barriers, the court would have failed its oath.

”The era of justice being perceived as distant, slow, or inaccessible must come to an end.

”Justice should not be reserved for the elite or seen as a luxury for the informed few. Instead, justice should be accessible and meaningful to all,” he emphasised.

The Chief Registrar of ECOWAS Court, Dr Yaouza Ouro-Sama, said that the court of justice was established in 1991 with the primary mandate of resolving disputes among member states

He noted that the court’s mandate expanded in 2005 to include human rights violations, adding that individuals and corporate bodies were granted direct access to the court.

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He added that the court’s most prominent mandate was its human rights jurisdiction, which formed the centre piece of its judicial activities.

The chief registrar acknowledged that many community citizens were unaware of the court’s existence or its mandate, jurisdiction, and procedures.

”To address this, the court has embarked on a sensitisation programme to engage with stakeholders, including government authorities, institutions, and citizens.

”ECOWAS Court of Justice belong to the member states and community citizens, and it is essential to involve all stakeholders in the court’s affairs.

”The court aims to maintain a cordial relationship with national courts and is not in competition with them,” he said.

He appealed to the government and people of Lagos State to support the ECOWAS Court of Justice in discharging its judicial mandate, hoping that the sensitisation programme would be mutually beneficial to all parties involved.

Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN), Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, Lagos State, considered it a privilege to collaborate with the ECOWAS institutions.

He said that the collaboration was also a responsibility aimed at promoting justice, regional integration, and human rights.

”This partnership underscores Lagos State’s commitment to upholding these values,” Pedro said.

He said that the state’s association with the ECOWAS court, aimed at promoting human rights, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring access to justice.

He commended the court’s mandate and encouraged legal practitioners to deepen their knowledge of its procedures and jurisprudence.

He also urged the legal community to engage with the opportunities offered by the ECOWAS court.

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, who chaired the ceremony, affirmed the critical role the ECOWAS court played in safeguarding rights and strengthening the rule of law across West Africa.

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She noted that the court did not threaten national judiciaries but complemented them in addressing cross-border challenges such as corruption, terrorism, and human rights violations.

”No single national judiciary can effectively respond to these transnational issues.

”The ECOWAS court enhances consistency in the application of regional legal instruments and provides a reliable forum for resolving disputes beyond national jurisdictions,” Kekere-Ekun said. (NAN)

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