Amanze Chinonye
Residents of Tangaza Local Government Area in Sokoto State have reported increased movement of armed groups following United States airstrikes on suspected terrorist hideouts on Christmas Day, raising fresh indications that the operation disrupted the activities of the Lakurawa group in the area, Prime Business Africa reports.
The airstrikes, carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities, targeted forested areas believed to serve as bases for the Lakurawa group, which has been blamed for a wave of kidnappings, livestock rustling and cross-border criminal activity affecting communities in Sokoto and neighbouring states.
According to local accounts, the targeted forests have long been used by militants to establish semi-permanent camps, move undetected and coordinate attacks on surrounding communities.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelTangaza’s location along key routes linking Nigeria to Niger Republic and other Sahel countries has made it a strategic corridor for armed groups as well as security forces.
READ ALSO : U.S-Nigeria Joint Airstrikes on ISIS in Sokoto Kill Many Terrorists
‘Numerous Perfect Strikes’ – Trump Responds to ISIS Attacks with Sokoto Airstrikes
Residents told reporters that following the strikes, some militants were seen abandoning camps and relocating to other areas. They said the bombardment disrupted the group’s operations and forced fighters to flee known hideouts.
Speaking on Arise News, correspondent Suleiman Nasiru said villagers confirmed that the airstrikes hit key Lakurawa positions in areas such as Kawuri, Kandam and Malgam.
“The US government on Christmas Day the villagers really confirmed that the US airstrike hit the target because they could confirm that people are moving from Kawuri, Kandam and Malgam, where the Lakurawa have their base,” Nasiru said.
“They were even very comfortable digging a borehole and a well to make it a permanent camp, which has been hit.”
While Nasiru’s account reflects local testimony, official military statements and major international reports have confirmed the targeting of Lakurawa camps but have not independently verified claims that the militants were digging boreholes or wells at the time of the strike.
In the aftermath of the airstrikes, security forces are expected to increase their presence across parts of Tangaza, launch clearance operations and monitoring movements to prevent the militants from regrouping. Residents say although fear remains, the visible deployment of security personnel will offer some reassurance.
Authorities have stressed that sustained follow-up operations are necessary to consolidate gains from the airstrikes and prevent the re-establishment of terrorist camps in the area.
Security analysts say the disruption of Lakurawa hideouts marks a significant step toward restoring stability in Tangaza and neighbouring communities, though long-term success will depend on continued intelligence-led operations and ground control of affected areas.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
