GOC 8 Division Survives Ambush in Kebbi as Troops Gun Down Lakurawa Terrorists
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army narrowly escaped death after troops engaged and neutralised suspected Lakurawa terrorists during an ambush in Kebbi State.
Security sources disclosed that the ambush occurred while troops were on an operational movement within the state. The convoy reportedly came under heavy gunfire from armed terrorists believed to be members of the Lakurawa group, a criminal network linked to cross-border attacks and banditry in parts of northwestern Nigeria.
Despite the surprise attack, soldiers swiftly regrouped and returned fire, engaging the assailants in a fierce gun battle. Several terrorists were reportedly gunned down during the exchange, while others fled into nearby forests with possible gunshot wounds.
The GOC, who was said to be leading or overseeing the operation, survived the attack unhurt. Military sources described the response as “swift and decisive,” noting that troops displayed professionalism under pressure.
Weapons and other items were reportedly recovered from the scene following the confrontation. Clearance operations have since been intensified in surrounding communities to track down fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks.
Kebbi State has experienced security challenges in recent years, particularly in border areas prone to infiltration by armed groups operating across Nigeria’s frontiers.
Military authorities have reiterated their commitment to eliminating terrorist and bandit elements threatening peace in the region. They also assured residents that ongoing operations would continue until normalcy is fully restored.
As of the time of filing this report, an official statement from the Nigerian Army headquarters was awaited, while security forces maintain heightened alert across the area.
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