A video allegedly showing notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has surfaced online, with the wanted figure claiming responsibility for recent attacks on security operatives in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara states. In the recording, the masked speaker, believed to be Turji, appeared alongside armed men and claimed his group carried out attacks in response to what he described as actions against local communities and livestock.
Turji Claims Retaliation Against Security Forces
Speaking in Hausa, the bandit leader alleged that some individuals had attacked communities and taken away their animals. He said, “Some people who are chasing away our livestock are killing our innocent brothers and sisters, people who have done nothing wrong, in places such as Shinkafi in Zamfara State, Sabon Birni in Sokoto State and other surrounding areas.” He further claimed, “We killed them. May Allah help us to succeed in defeating them and in recovering our animals from their hands.”
Calls for Negotiation with Government
Turji said his group would consider talks with the government but warned that they were prepared for continued confrontation if force was used against them. “If the government is ready for negotiation, we are also ready for negotiation. But if they want to continue with force, we are prepared. Our fighters are ready for whatever comes,” he said.
Security Concerns Rise in Sokoto Zamfara Axis
The video emerged days after an attack along the Isa–Bargaja route in Sokoto State, where suspected terrorists reportedly ambushed security personnel responding to a distress call. Sources alleged that an explosive device was used during the attack, resulting in casualties among security personnel, though authorities have not officially confirmed the figures. Security agencies have yet to comment on the video, while the authenticity of the claims remains unverified. Turji remains one of Nigeria’s most wanted bandit leaders, linked by authorities to several criminal activities across the North-West.
Previous Reports of Turji’s Activities
Earlier reports indicated fresh security tension in parts of eastern Sokoto after intelligence suggested that some loyalists of Bello Turji were allegedly carrying out weapon training and tactical exercises in communities along the Sokoto-Zamfara border. The intelligence report explained that the terrorists' training was taking place in areas around border towns such as Bingabale Kudu through Bafarawa East to Bargaja. Fighters linked to Turji were said to be undergoing military-style drilling with newly acquired weapons.
