Infamous terrorist leader Bello Turji has issued a chilling warning to residents of Zamfara and Sokoto States, vowing to unleash violence in 2025 unless his demands are met. This comes on the heels of a military operation that reportedly dismantled key figures in his terror network.
Turji’s threats, made in a video released on Christmas Day, are a response to the Nigerian military’s December 20 announcement of the successful capture of his alleged allies. Major General Edward Buba disclosed that the operation led to the arrest of three key figures: Bako Wurgi, Abubakar Muhammad, and Hamisu Sale (alias “Master”).
Wurgi, linked to the murder of a Sokoto monarch, reportedly died from injuries sustained in a firefight but not before providing crucial intelligence to the military. “The arrested terrorist leader, Bako Wurgi, succumbed to gunshot injuries during the firefight,” Buba explained, adding, “He provided valuable intelligence that has advanced our operations.”
In his video, Turji vehemently denied the military’s version of events, accusing them of arresting innocent elderly men rather than his combatants. He ridiculed Major General Buba, claiming, “The people you arrested are over 75 years old. Look at me; I am 35. How can those elderly people be my accomplices?”
Turji also questioned the military’s integrity, alleging that the arrests were conducted in markets and hospitals rather than in a battlefield encounter. “You claimed to have fought us, but where are the weapons you said you seized? Show them to the people,” he taunted.
The bandit leader accused residents of Zamfara and Sokoto States, particularly those in Shinkafi, Isa, and Zurmi, of collaborating with the military by providing intelligence that led to the arrests. He issued a chilling ultimatum:
“If you don’t secure the release of our brothers, 2025 will be deadly for you. We will increase kidnappings for ransom and turn your towns into rubble,” Turji warned.
Brandishing his reputation for brutality, he added, “You know we are killers, and we know how to kill. You see us as uncivilised, and we see you the same way.”
Turji’s threats have heightened tensions in Shinkafi and its neighboring communities, where residents fear an escalation in bandit activities. These areas have already been plagued by insecurity, with frequent attacks, kidnappings, and destruction of property.
A local resident, speaking under anonymity, described the situation as a nightmare. “It feels like we are caught between two forces. On one side, we have the military, and on the other, these bandits. We don’t know who to trust anymore,” he lamented.
Bello Turji is no stranger to controversy. Known for leading one of the most notorious terror groups in the North-West region, he has orchestrated numerous attacks, including kidnappings, killings, and the destruction of entire communities.
Despite several military offensives against his group, Turji has managed to evade capture, often using threats and violence to maintain control over his territory. His latest ultimatum underscores his unrelenting grip on the region and his willingness to retaliate against perceived enemies.
The Nigerian military has yet to respond directly to Turji’s video, but officials have reiterated their commitment to eradicating terrorism in the North-West. “We will not be intimidated by threats,” a senior military officer stated. “Our focus remains on restoring peace and stability to affected communities.”
Civil society groups have called for increased security in vulnerable areas and better protection for civilians who face the dual threat of bandits and the potential for retaliatory violence.
The North-West region of Nigeria has long been a hotspot for banditry and terrorism, fueled by poverty, weak governance, and a lack of infrastructure. Experts warn that without a comprehensive strategy addressing these root causes, the cycle of violence is unlikely to end.
Security analyst Dr. Ibrahim Usman emphasized the importance of intelligence-driven operations. “The military must work closely with local communities to identify and neutralize threats,” he said. “But trust is a critical factor, and right now, that trust is broken.”
