Free All Kidnap Victims First – Govt Reacts to Bandit Leader Bello Turji Peace Talks.
Sokoto State Demands Action, Not Just Words, From Notorious Bandit
The Sokoto State Government has challenged infamous bandit leader Bello Turji to prove his sincerity about peace negotiations by immediately releasing all kidnapped victims and ending attacks on vulnerable communities.
The call came from Col. Ahmed Usman (retd), Security Adviser to Sokoto State Governor, in response to an audio message circulating on social media where Turji expressed willingness to embrace dialogue and encouraged fellow bandits to pursue peace.
READ: FG Reveals Monthly, Yearly Payments to Buhari’s Family – Full Benefits Listed
While acknowledging Turji’s message as a potential breakthrough in the region’s security crisis, Usman emphasized that the state government would judge the bandit leader by his actions rather than words
“If Turji is genuinely committed to peace, he must demonstrate it by stopping all violence and freeing innocent civilians in his custody,” Usman stated firmly on Sunday.
The security adviser’s remarks highlight the government’s cautious approach to engaging with armed groups, demanding verifiable confidence-building measures before any formal negotiations.
READ: UNIZIK Law Student Dies After Being Denied Access to Diabetes Medication Over Unpaid Rent
The appeal comes as hundreds remain captive in bandit camps across Northwest Nigeria, with rural communities enduring near-daily attacks, kidnappings, and economic devastation. Turji’s faction alone is believed to hold numerous victims from Sokoto, Zamfara, and neighboring states.
READ: Tragic End: Young Woman Dies After Refusing to Return N9K Transport Money
Security analysts suggest Turji’s unexpected peace overture may reflect:
- Growing military pressure on bandit strongholds
- Internal divisions among armed groups
- Potential willingness to negotiate amnesty terms
However, state authorities remain wary, recalling previous failed peace deals with bandits that collapsed amid broken promises and renewed violence.
The Sokoto government has made clear that concrete actions, not just audio messages, will determine whether this becomes a true turning point or another false dawn in Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
Free All Kidnap Victims First – Govt Reacts to Bandit Leader Bello Turji Peace Talks.
