Bello Turji Resurfaces, Issues Deadly Threats To Villagers In Sokoto East
Peace in Sabon Birni and Isa local government areas of Sokoto East Senatorial District is under threat as feared bandit leader Bello Turji reportedly resurfaced, warning that anyone who refuses to pledge loyalty to him would face deadly consequences.
The alleged threat, directed at Tidibale village in Isa Local Government Area, has caused widespread panic, prompting residents to flee their homes for safety. Many villagers have moved to Isa town or neighbouring communities in Shinkafi Local Government, Zamfara State, leaving behind their crops and possessions.
A resident of Tidibale, speaking anonymously, said, “The village is in fear of what may happen to us, so we abandoned everything and fled. Some of us have not even harvested our crops. We just left to save our lives.”
Alhaji Shehu, another local, described the harsh conditions faced by those displaced, saying they now live with relatives or in makeshift tents in open fields, exposed to severe weather. “We depend on handouts, and sometimes we go hungry when there is no help,” he said.
Shehu also revealed that Turji’s demands included paying a levy, pledging not to report his movements or activities, and cooperating with his foot soldiers on various matters.
Responding to the reports, Sokoto State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmed Rufai, said the police had not received any formal notification of the threat. However, after seeing reports on social media, the command contacted the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in the area to verify the information.
Rufai noted that a few days ago, bandits attacked Bargaja village in Isa Local Government Area, killing two people and abducting an unspecified number of others. He assured that security agencies were taking measures to apprehend the criminals and urged residents to provide credible information on threats, levies, or other bandit activities.
Attempts to reach Senator Ibrahim Lamido, representing Sokoto East Senatorial District, were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated that the military is still verifying the reports. “We are trying to confirm the information,” he said.
