Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has sounded the alarm over a disturbing security development in the North-Central region of Nigeria—the emergence of a Boko Haram splinter group known as Wulowulo.
Governor Sule made this known on Monday during an expanded security council meeting held at the Government House in Lafia, where he addressed rising concerns over terrorist infiltration, communal clashes, and increased kidnapping activities across the state.
Boko Haram Splinter Group ‘Wulowulo’ Threatens North-Central Zone
Governor Sule revealed that intelligence reports have uncovered the emergence of Wulowulo, a breakaway faction of Boko Haram, now operating in the North-Central zone—a region previously considered relatively safe from insurgency.
“As you are aware, this new group of Wulowulo is beginning to surface in the North Central zone. We need to ensure that we take certain steps not to allow it, at least to come into our state,” the governor said.
He warned that criminal elements from other parts of the country are actively trying to infiltrate Nasarawa and neighbouring states, emphasizing the need for proactive security strategies to protect the region.
Communal Violence Claims Lives in Kokona LGA
The governor also condemned the recent violent communal clash in Nindama village, near Ninkoro in Kokona Local Government Area, which resulted in the deaths of seven people.
He directed the Commissioner of Police and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) to launch a full investigation into the root cause of the conflict, which reportedly stemmed from a land dispute.
“Seven people have been killed, with one survivor. Even if it is one person killed, we are very, very worried. We need to get to the root of that matter,” he stressed.
Kidnapping Surge in Lafia and Karu LGAs
Governor Sule expressed deep concern over the rise in kidnapping cases, especially in Lafia and parts of Karu Local Government Area, admitting that current measures have not been enough.
“Kidnapping has remained constant. It has moved from other places and become more prominent in Lafia and Karu. Whatever we have done in the past may not be enough. We need a new strategy,” he stated.
Emerging Terrorist Networks in Neighbouring States
The governor also mentioned that the Lakurawa terrorist group, originally operating in Kebbi and Sokoto States, has now gained a foothold in Kwara State—another North-Central state.
“Kwara is one of the states in North Central. We should be concerned that it does not extend all the way to Nasarawa State,” Sule warned.
Commendations and Calls for Action
Governor Sule commended the Nigeria Police Force for deploying 120 additional officers to boost security in the state and praised the NDLEA’s door-to-door anti-drug operations. However, he called for increased arrests of drug traffickers and resistance to political pressure for the release of suspects.
He urged community members and families not to interfere with justice by seeking bail for arrested individuals, especially those involved in drug-related crimes.
“Let those caught face the consequences of their actions. That will serve as a deterrent to others,” he advised.
Appreciation for Traditional Rulers and Local Leaders
Governor Sule concluded the meeting by thanking traditional rulers, local government chairmen, and all stakeholders for their continuous support in maintaining peace and stability.
“Every time we convene these meetings, it is because we care deeply about the security and welfare of our people,” he said.
