A Nigerian rights advocate has alleged that dozens of foreign fighters linked to the Lakurawa armed group entered Sokoto State from the Sahel region last year without any intervention from security authorities.
Steven Kefas, founder of the Community Development and Rights Advocacy Foundation, made the claim while speaking on Channels Television on Thursday. He said about three trailer-loads of fighters crossed into Sokoto through neighbouring Niger Republic in August 2025, describing the development as part of a wider and deepening security crisis.
Kefas argued that the influx of fighters is being sustained by funds generated through kidnapping and ransom payments, which he said are directly converted into weapons purchases.
‘Ransom days are arms delivery days’
According to Kefas, a close associate who spent nearly four months in captivity before regaining freedom in October last year revealed how ransom payments are linked to arms supply.
He said the former hostage told him that arms dealers often arrive at terrorist camps on the same day ransom money is delivered, with the funds immediately used to pay for weapons.
“The kidnapping that is going on is essentially a means of raising funds to acquire arms,” Kefas said. “That tells you there is no end in sight if this structure is not dismantled.”
He warned that the system has created a self-sustaining cycle in which ransom payments fuel expansion, recruitment and increased firepower for armed groups.
Fighters entering from Mali, Niger — advocate
Kefas further claimed that Nigeria’s porous borders continue to allow fighters to enter from Mali and Niger, strengthening armed groups operating in the north-west and north-central regions.
He said the impact is no longer limited to traditional flashpoints, noting that Kwara and Kogi states, previously considered relatively safe, are now witnessing similar criminal activities.
Kaduna attacks and alleged land occupation
The rights advocate also raised alarm over what he described as targeted attacks and land occupation in parts of Kaduna State, particularly Kajuru Local Government Area.
He cited the abduction of about 177 worshippers from churches on a Sunday, as well as earlier incidents in which people were reportedly killed during church services.
Kefas said nearly 40 communities in Kajuru have been displaced, with some allegedly taken over by armed groups.
He described the situation as complex and accused the government of failing to respond adequately to the evolving threat.
