‘We’re ready for talks or war with government’ — Turji claims responsibility for fresh attacks

A video allegedly showing wanted bandit leader Bello Turji has surfaced online, with the masked figure claiming responsibility for recent attacks on security operatives in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara states while declaring readiness for either negotiations or armed confrontation with the government.

The video, reportedly recorded in Hausa and dated 20 June 2026, showed the speaker believed to be Mr Turji surrounded by armed men dressed in military-style camouflage.

In the recording, Mr Turji alleged that members of his group launched retaliatory attacks against individuals he accused of targeting their communities and seizing livestock.

“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,” he said.

Claiming success in the attacks, he added, “Allah granted us victory over these people who are carrying out these operations and driving away our livestock. We killed them. May Allah help us to succeed in defeating them and in recovering our animals from their hands.”

Turji signals openness to negotiation

Mr Turji also addressed the possibility of peace talks, suggesting his group was open to dialogue but prepared to continue fighting if military pressure persists.

“If the government is ready for negotiation, we are also ready for negotiation. But if they want to continue with force, we are prepared. Our fighters are ready for whatever comes,” he said.

He further declared, “We are ready for peace, but if they choose war, we are also ready. We will defend ourselves.”

Fresh security concerns in Sokoto, Zamfara

The video emerged days after reports of an attack along the Isa–Bargaja corridor in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, where suspected armed groups reportedly ambushed security personnel responding to a distress call.

Local and security sources alleged that an improvised explosive device detonated during the operation, with reports indicating casualties among security personnel, although authorities had not officially confirmed those figures at the time of filing this report.

The attack was also said to have involved exchanges of gunfire and the destruction of a security vehicle.

Security sources reportedly expressed concern that prior intelligence warning of armed movements within the area may not have received immediate operational response.

Authorities yet to respond

Mr Turji’s latest remarks come amid renewed concerns over the activities of armed groups operating around border communities linking Sokoto and Zamfara states.

Security agencies had not officially responded to the contents of the video as of press time.

The claims made in the recording, including responsibility for attacks and casualty figures, could not be independently verified.

Mr Turji remains among Nigeria’s most wanted bandit figures and has repeatedly been linked by security agencies to kidnappings, killings, cattle rustling and violent attacks across the North-West.