True to his threat, notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, has begin to unleash mayhem on villages around his camp, hours before the ultimatum he gave, demanding release of his ally, Bako Wurgi, arrested by security agents.
Former Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, who disclosed this to newsmen, urged the authorities to take decisive action to curb the escalating insecurity in the Northwest, particularly the menace of banditry.
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Recall that, Bello Turji in a recent video boldly challenged security agencies to release his ally, Bako Wurgi, who was recently arrested by security operatives at the Shinkafi General Hospital.
Bello Turji’s ally, Wurgi was said to have been injured after he had confrontations with some other terrorist groups in the Mania area and was taken to Shinkafi General Hospital where he was arrested by the Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma.
In the video, Bello Turji warned that he would render towns and villages in Shinkafi Zurmi (Zamfara state) and Isa (Sokoto state) devastated and desolate if his demand is not met by December 31, 2024.
Bafarawa, speaking with journalists at his Sokoto residence said, “The ultimatum given by Bello Turji, demanding the release of his ally arrested by security agents, is deeply worrisome and should not be taken lightly.
“Turji who had initially threatened to unleash attacks starting January 1, 2025, if his demand was not met, had already begun launching attacks ahead of the deadline.
“Just around 2pm on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, I received reports of his attack on a village. As we speak, it has become impossible for anyone to travel safely to my hometown, Bafarawa,” he said.
Highlighting the deteriorating security situation, Bafarawa lamented that, the entire communities near his hometown have been displaced, with residents seeking refuge in urban centres.
According to the former governor, ” the menace of banditry is a big challenge. If we can resolve this and other security challenges, I believe our economy will improve,” he stated.
