Sokoto govt urges Turji to match peace talks with action
By: Zagazola Makama
The Sokoto State Government has urged notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, to demonstrate genuine commitment to peace by halting all attacks on rural communities and unconditionally releasing abducted civilians still in his custody.
Col. Ahmed Usman (rtd), Security Adviser to the Governor of Sokoto State, made the appeal on Sunday while reacting to a recent audio message attributed to Turji, in which the bandits’ kingpin expressed willingness to embrace peace and called on other armed leaders to follow suit.
Usman said while the development signals a possible shift in the ongoing security challenges in parts of Sokoto and neighbouring states, the government would only consider Turji’s overtures meaningful if backed by concrete action.
“Anyone can make statements, but the real test lies in what follows. If Turji truly wants peace, let him stop attacking our villages and release the innocent citizens still being held captive,” he said.
He noted that Sokoto State remains committed to peace and security through a multi-pronged approach, but warned that the government would not lower its guard or be drawn into negotiations based on empty rhetoric.
The security adviser further stressed that the state government, under Governor Ahmed Aliyu, would continue to support security agencies and local communities to resist criminal elements seeking to destabilise the region.
“This government will not be swayed by audio statements. Peace must be earned through demonstrable actions, not through propaganda,” he said.
