NOTORIOUS bandit leader in Nigeria’s northwest, Bello Turji, in a video circulating on social media, claimed responsibility for recent attacks on security operatives in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara states, declaring that his group was open to negotiations with the government, but remained prepared for armed confrontation, if necessary.
In the video, recorded in Hausa and dated June 20, the masked speaker, believed to be Turji, appeared alongside armed men dressed in military-style camouflage, claiming that his fighters had carried out attacks against those he accused of killing members of their communities and confiscating their livestock.
According to the wanted bandit: “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 that his group had retaliated against those involved, he adding: “Allah granted us victory over these people who are carrying out these operations and driving away our livestock.
“We killed them. May Allah help us to succeed in defeating them and in recovering our animals from their hands.”
He also used the video to address the issue of possible peace talks with authorities, indicating a willingness to negotiate if the government chooses dialogue over military action, saying: “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 vowed that his group would not renounce armed resistance, noting: “We are ready for peace, but if they choose war, we are also ready. We will defend ourselves.”
The video surfaced online days after an attack along the Isa-Bargaja area of Isa Local Council of Sokoto State, when Turji’s suspected loyalists reportedly ambushed security personnel responding to a distress call. Local and security sources alleged that an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated during the operation, killing at least four soldiers, near Bargaja village, a community that has witnessed increased terrorist activity in recent months.
Military authorities were yet to officially confirm the casualties.
Following the incident, gunmen reportedly engaged security forces, while a security vehicle was set ablaze.
Turji’s latest claims came amid reports of increased activities by armed groups operating in border communities between Sokoto and Zamfara states, where intelligence sources recently reported gatherings and weapons training exercises involving fighters believed to be his loyalists.
Although Turji’s statements have attracted traction online, security authorities were yet to officially respond to the contents, while the authenticity of the claims in the recording, including had not been verified.
