June 22, 2026 – Sokoto, Nigeria
Notorious bandit kingpin Bello Turji has declared that his group is open to negotiations with the government but remains prepared for armed confrontation, in a video that has sparked fresh concerns about the resilience of armed groups operating in Nigeria's North-West.
In the video, which is dated June 20, 2026, Turji appeared alongside armed men in military uniforms and explained that his group launched the attacks to fight back against people who have been killing members of their communities and stealing their animals.
The masked speaker claimed responsibility for recent attacks on security operatives in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara states, while expressing willingness to engage in dialogue with the government.
The bandit leader also used the video to address the issue of possible peace talks with authorities, indicating a willingness to negotiate if the government chooses dialogue over military action.
The video surfaced days after a deadly attack along the Isa–Bargaja axis in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, where suspected terrorists loyal to Turji reportedly laid an ambush on security personnel responding to a distress call.
Residents told journalists that bandits invaded the village between 12:30am and 3:00am, shooting sporadically and forcing residents to seek military intervention.
The attack was a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by bandit groups in the North-West, which has been plagued by violence, kidnappings, and cattle rustling for years.
Bello Turji is one of the most wanted bandit leaders in Nigeria. He has been linked to numerous attacks on communities, security forces, and travellers across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina states. Over the years, he has used videos and audio messages to communicate with supporters, announce ceasefires, and respond to military operations.
His latest video is seen as a direct challenge to the Nigerian government, which has been intensifying military operations against bandits in the North-West.
Turji's declaration that his group is ready for "peace or war" presents a dilemma for the Nigerian government. On one hand, engaging in dialogue with bandits could be seen as a sign of weakness and could encourage more criminality. On the other hand, a purely military approach has not succeeded in ending banditry, which has persisted for years. The government's response to Turji's message will be closely watched, as it could signal a shift in the country's counter-insurgency strategy. The fact that Turji and his fighters are now conducting weapons training and tactical drills further underscores the gravity of the situation.
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