Former Sokoto State Governor Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa has called on the government to address escalating violence in the Zamfara-Sokoto border communities, following attacks allegedly orchestrated by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji.
Speaking to RFI Hausa, Bafarawa condemned Turji’s actions, describing them as a serious threat to security in the region.
“If someone like Turji can freely unleash terror and disrupt lives in our communities, it is a clear call for urgent government intervention,” he said.
Reports suggest that Turji launched the attacks in response to the detention of his relatives by security forces over alleged terrorism-related activities.
Turji had reportedly issued a January 1, 2025 ultimatum for their release, vowing severe consequences if his demands were not met.
Residents from the affected communities, particularly in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, confirmed that Turji’s men had carried out violent raids, forcing hundreds of people to flee their homes in search of safety.
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal Dare, in an earlier statement, reaffirmed his administration’s stance against negotiating with terrorists.
He pledged continued support for security agencies and the state’s security outfit, Askarawan Zamfara, to restore peace across the state.
Turji’s threats reportedly escalated during Christmas, as he declared plans to begin 2025 with widespread killings and kidnappings in Shinkafi and surrounding areas if his detained relatives were not released.
His men recently ambushed passengers travelling from Zamfara State capital to Shinkafi. The attackers set the vehicle ablaze and abducted approximately 10 passengers, including the driver, dragging them into the bush.
The incident has instilled widespread fear, with many residents halting travel in the region. In a viral video, Turji warned that his campaign of violence would only intensify if his relatives remained in custody.
“We will kill and kidnap the people of Shinkafi and disrupt their peace. If our relatives are not freed, they will have no peace,” he threatened.
Bafarawa’s plea adds to the growing demand for swift government action to curb the worsening insecurity and protect vulnerable communities from further harm.