Bandit leader, Bello Turji has reportedly 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 development was disclosed in a video circulating on social media and reportedly recorded on June 20, 2026.
According to the video, which was delivered in Hausa, a masked man believed to be Turji appeared alongside armed individuals dressed in military-style camouflage and spoke about ongoing clashes in parts of the North-West.
In the recording, the speaker alleged that some communities had been subjected to attacks and livestock seizures in areas including Shinkafi in Zamfara State and Sabon Birni in Sokoto State.
“Some people who are chasing away our livestock are killing our innocent brothers and sisters, people who have done nothing wrong, in places such as Shinkafi in Zamfara State, Sabon Birni in Sokoto State and other surrounding areas,” the speaker said.
He also claimed that members of his group had carried out retaliatory attacks against those they accused of targeting their communities.
“Allah granted us victory over these people who are carrying out these operations and driving away our livestock,” he stated.
The speaker also addressed the possibility of peace negotiations with authorities, saying his group was willing to engage in talks if the government pursued dialogue.
“If the government is ready for negotiation, we are also ready for negotiation,” he said.
However, he added that the group was also prepared to continue armed confrontation if military operations persisted.
“But if they want to continue with force, we are prepared. Our fighters are ready for whatever comes,” the speaker stated.
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.
Local and security sources alleged that an Improvised Explosive Device detonated during the operation, killing at least four soldiers, although military authorities have yet to officially confirm the casualty figure.
The incident reportedly occurred near Bargaja village, a community that has witnessed increased terrorist activity in recent months.
Following the explosion, gunmen were said to have engaged security forces, while a security vehicle was reportedly set ablaze during the attack.
Security sources had earlier expressed concern that intelligence reports warning of armed groups’ movements within the Isa–Bargaja corridor were not acted upon promptly, potentially exposing security personnel to the ambush.
Turji’s latest claims are also coming amid reports of increased activities by armed groups operating in border communities between Sokoto and Zamfara states, where intelligence sources recently reported gatherings and weapons training exercises involving fighters believed to be loyal to the notorious bandit leader.
