Bandit leader Bello Turji has said he is ready to either enter peace talks with the Nigerian government or continue armed conflict.
In a video that circulated on social media and was reportedly recorded on June 20, 2026, a masked man believed to be Turji appeared with armed men dressed in camouflage. He spoke in Hausa about ongoing violence in parts of the North-West.
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He claimed responsibility for recent attacks on security operatives in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara States. He also alleged that his group was acting in response to attacks and livestock seizures in some communities.
Turji said some innocent people were affected during military operations in areas such as Shinkafi in Zamfara State and Sabon Birni in Sokoto State. He claimed his group carried out retaliatory attacks in response.
He also said his group is open to peace talks if the government is willing to negotiate.
“If the government is ready for negotiation, we are also ready,” he said.
However, he warned that if military operations continue, his fighters are prepared to continue fighting.
“But if they choose war, we are also ready,” he added.
Security operations have recently increased in the North-West as authorities continue efforts to address banditry and other violent crimes in the region.
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