Residents of Sokoto State were thrown into fear on Wednesday following a deadly attack by bandits loyal to the notorious kingpin, Bello Turji. The incident occurred in Lugu village, located in Isa Local Government Area, where several people were reportedly killed and injured, and at least 15 residents abducted, including men and women.
Eyewitnesses said the bandits stormed the community late in the day, targeting homes and businesses. Panic spread quickly as villagers fled in different directions to avoid the violence. The attackers are believed to have carried out the assault with the same level of planning and brutality seen in previous raids.
This attack comes just a day after Turji’s men raided Gajit village, also in Isa LGA, where they reportedly injured residents and kidnapped at least 20 people. The repeated attacks have raised serious concerns about the safety of communities in the Sokoto East District and the ability of security forces to contain the threat.
A source from the area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “Last night, bandits loyal to Bello Turji attacked Lugu village, killing and injuring several residents. At least 15 people were abducted, including men and women. These attacks are causing fear and panic across our communities.”
The residents expressed frustration over the continued onslaught by Turji’s gang. One villager lamented, “For how long will Turji and his men continue to destabilise communities across the Sokoto East District? People are living in constant fear of being killed or kidnapped.”
Bello Turji has become a household name in northwestern Nigeria due to his role in a series of violent attacks, kidnappings, and killings. His operations have affected several communities across Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina states, leaving residents terrified and security agencies under pressure to act.
Banditry has been a major security challenge in northwestern Nigeria for years, with criminals targeting villages for ransom, food, and weapons. The government has launched several military operations to curb the menace, but groups loyal to Turji continue to operate with relative ease, often striking multiple communities within days.
The Sokoto State government has yet to release an official statement regarding the Lugu attack. However, local authorities and security operatives are believed to have increased patrols in the area to track down the attackers and rescue the abducted residents.
Communities in Isa LGA and surrounding areas have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies. Traditional and religious leaders are also being called upon to help mediate and provide early warning mechanisms to prevent further attacks.
Residents continue to plead for urgent intervention from both state and federal authorities. Many fear that unless decisive action is taken, the cycle of violence, abduction, and destruction will continue to escalate, further destabilising the region.