Sokoto Residents Finger Bello Turji For Fresh Killings, Abductions

At least 10 people were killed and 40 others abducted when suspected bandits allegedly loyal to Bello Turji stormed the Tofa community in Rabah local government area of Sokoto State in an attack on Monday morning.

The attack, which reportedly began at about 1 am and lasted for nearly four hours, is the latest in a wave of violence affecting communities on Nigeria’s North-West region.

A resident, Ibrahim Sidi, said the attackers, believed to be terrorists operating under the influence of Bello Turji, invaded Tofa, opened fire on residents, abducted dozens of people and rustled a large number of livestock before retreating into the forest.

He, however, urged the military not to relent in its efforts to track down and apprehend high-profile terrorist leaders, including Turji.

Another resident, Umar Kebbe, confirmed the death toll, adding that the attackers also looted property and made away with several cattle.

Kebbe alleged that Bello Turji, a notorious bandit kingpin believed to be operating from neighbouring Zamfara State, masterminded the attack.

“Turji is not above the law. He must be dealt with,” he said.

Rabah local government area shares a boundary with Zamfara State, which has remained a major hotspot for kidnapping, banditry and cattle-rustling gangs.

Mohammed Nahuche, who spoke with LEADERSHIP, identified some of those killed in the attack as Malam Muhammadu, Danbakanike, Musa Dan Agaji, Masaudu Basiru, Buba Biti, Yar Kuluwa Basiru and Jamila Umma.

Among those abducted were Shafiu Bello, Bilyaminu Abubakar, Saifullahi Buhari, Hauwau Zayyanu, Saratu Ibrahim, Safiyya Nasi, Zulaiha Aminu, Bilya Abu, Farida Lawali, Yar Kadan Aminu and Kulu Amadu.

Nahuche further disclosed that 10 of the abducted victims later regained their freedom after the bandits released them while taking the captives towards their hideout.

Two additional abductions were also reported in nearby Saburu village, including that of a farmer identified as Sani Gayya.

The spokesperson for the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the incident but said a comprehensive report would be issued after details of the attack had been compiled.

As of press time, the Sokoto State Government had yet to issue an official statement on the attack.

Efforts to reach the chairman of Rabah Local Government Area were also unsuccessful as of press time.

Last month, about 30 Muslim worshippers were reportedly killed when suspected jihadists attacked the Ungushi community in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State during Friday prayers.

Residents of Tofa and neighbouring communities are now calling on the Federal Government and security agencies to deploy additional troops to Rabah and other border communities to prevent further attacks.