Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has reportedly resumed violent activities along the Shinkafi road in Zamfara State, disregarding recent appeals from senior Fulani leaders to halt his attacks.
Intelligence sources revealed to Zagazola Makama that Turji and his armed group have been targeting travelers and communities along the road, creating widespread panic and severely disrupting movement in the area.
These renewed attacks occurred just hours after prominent Fulani leaders from Shinkafi, Moriki, and Zurmi convened with Turji in an effort to dissuade him from continuing his threats and to urge him to lift the blockade of the Shinkafi-Gusau road.
During the meeting, the leaders implored Turji to abandon plans for abductions and killings, particularly in Zamfara and neighboring Sokoto State. They also called for the reopening of critical transportation routes to allow for the free flow of people and goods. Despite their appeals, Turji reportedly made no commitments, and their efforts appear to have failed.
The resurgence of violence is believed to be linked to Turji’s anger over the recent arrest of his close associate, Bako Wurgi, by the Nigerian Army. Wurgi, also known as Baka NaGarba, was a key operative in Turji’s network, handling ransom negotiations and payments linked to kidnappings.
Turji’s renewed hostility underscores the fragile security situation in Zamfara and the challenges faced by authorities and local communities in addressing banditry. Residents now fear further escalation of violence as Turji and his men continue to defy peace efforts.
The development highlights the urgent need for decisive government action to restore stability and ensure the safety of travelers and communities in the affected regions.