Residents Alarmed as Notorious Bandit Leader Bello Turji Resurfaces

The reappearance of notorious bandit leader Bello Turji in Sokoto State has instilled widespread fear among residents. Turji, previously believed to have been neutralized during military operations, has resurfaced, imposing a ₦25 million levy on villages in the eastern part of the state.

Local sources report that Turji’s demands are in retaliation for the killing of one of his men during a recent military operation. The imposed levy is intended as compensation for the loss and to cover the cost of missing firearms. Communities unable to meet these demands fear potential violent reprisals from Turji’s faction.

The Defence Headquarters has yet to issue an official statement regarding Turji’s resurgence, leaving affected communities in a state of uncertainty and heightened anxiety. Residents are calling on the government to take decisive action to address the security threat and prevent further escalation of violence in the region.