Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has accused two former northern governors of playing key roles in the insecurity ravaging parts of Northern Nigeria, particularly Zamfara and Sokoto states. He also confirmed his involvement in past peace meetings with the Zamfara State government but strongly denied claims that he received ₦30 million or any material inducement for participating in the talks.
Attempts to get reactions from the former governors named by Turji were unsuccessful, as calls and messages sent to them were not returned as of press time. However, sources close to the ex-governors dismissed Turji’s claims, describing them as lies and warning against placing credibility on the words of a known terrorist.
In a viral video that surfaced on Sunday, Turji alleged that past political leaders in Zamfara and Sokoto states laid the foundation for the region’s prolonged insecurity. He claimed former administrations armed vigilante groups, popularly known as Yan Banga, accusing them of targeting Fulani communities and worsening violence in the region.
Turji specifically called for the arrest and investigation of the former governors, insisting they bear responsibility for the crisis. He also rejected any suggestion that he was acting on behalf of politicians, claiming he was speaking in his personal capacity and “before God alone.”
Addressing allegations by former peace negotiator Musa Kamarawa, who accused him of collecting ₦30 million during peace talks in Gusau, Turji described the claims as false and malicious. He admitted that meetings took place but insisted neither he nor any Fulani leader received money or vehicles, saying the engagements were solely aimed at reducing violence.
Despite his claims, security agencies continue to identify Turji as one of the most dangerous bandit leaders in the North-West, with the military declaring him wanted for terror-related activities.
Meanwhile, security forces recorded another success in the fight against banditry, as a joint team of Mobile Police, community guards and the Nigerian Army killed a notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Na’Allah, during an operation in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State. Authorities say the operation is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in the region.
