“We’re Ready for Talks or War” — Bello Turji Dares FG After Deadly Sokoto Ambush

• Wanted bandit kingpin releases video claiming responsibility for killing soldiers, parades armed fighters in military uniforms as intelligence warns of Boko Haram collaboration

Bello Turji, one of Nigeria’s most wanted bandit leaders, has issued a defiant ultimatum to the federal government, declaring that his group is prepared for either peace negotiations or all-out war, depending on which path the authorities choose to pursue. The declaration came in a video recorded in Hausa and dated June 20, 2026, which has been circulating widely on social media, heightening tensions across Nigeria’s troubled North-west region. In the footage, the masked speaker—believed to be Turji—appeared flanked by heavily armed men dressed in military-style camouflage, with belts of ammunition and multiple firearms displayed prominently around them. He claimed responsibility for recent deadly attacks on security operatives in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara states, framing the assaults as retaliation against individuals he accused of killing community members and confiscating livestock.

The video surfaced just days after a devastating ambush along the Isa–Bargaja axis in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State. According to security sources and eyewitnesses, suspected terrorists loyal to Turji laid an ambush on security personnel responding to a distress call from the Bargaja community, with residents reporting that bandits invaded the village between 12:30 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., shooting sporadically and forcing locals to seek military intervention. Local sources reported that an Improvised Explosive Device detonated during the operation, killing at least four soldiers, although military authorities have yet to officially confirm the casualty figure, and a resident who spoke anonymously said that the security personnel were on their way to rescue the community when the vehicle hit the explosive, affecting many soldiers. Following the explosion, gunmen engaged security forces, and a security vehicle was reportedly set ablaze during the attack.

In the video, Turji explained that his group launched the attacks to fight back against people he accused of killing members of their communities and stealing their animals, stating that some people who are chasing away their livestock are killing innocent brothers and sisters who have done nothing wrong in places such as Shinkafi in Zamfara State, Sabon Birni in Sokoto State and other surrounding areas. He added that Allah granted them victory over these people who are carrying out these operations and driving away their livestock, and that they killed them, praying that Allah would help them succeed in defeating their enemies and in recovering their animals from their hands. Security analysts suggest the recording is designed to frame the group’s activities as retaliation against alleged attacks on pastoral communities—a narrative experts say has frequently been used by armed groups to justify violence and attract sympathy within affected communities.

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The bandit kingpin used the video to directly address the federal government’s strategy, making it clear that his group would match whatever approach the authorities decide to take, stating that if the government is ready for negotiation, they are also ready for negotiation, but if they want to continue with force, they are prepared and their fighters are ready for whatever comes. He further emphasised his group’s resolve, stating that they are ready for peace, but if the government chooses war, they are also ready and will defend themselves. Turji, who is believed to operate from forest enclaves spanning parts of Zamfara and neighbouring states, remains one of Nigeria’s most wanted bandit leaders and has been repeatedly linked by security agencies to kidnappings, killings, cattle rustling, and attacks across the North-west.

Fresh security concerns have emerged following confirmation by the Nigerian Army that it has received intelligence reports alleging that Turji and his loyalists are conducting weapons training and tactical drills in parts of Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, with the alleged training activities taking place in several communities including Bingabale, Bafarawa, Bargaja, and Gebe, all within the Eastern Senatorial District. Security sources further alleged that the exercises involve armed fighters loyal to Turji, including close associates such as Illa Manawa and Dodo, reportedly his younger brother, and that the group is said to be undergoing military-style drills and weapons handling using newly acquired arms, with reports suggesting the possible use of night-vision equipment and other tactical gear. The army’s Acting Deputy Director of Public Relations, Lt. Col. Osoba Olaniyi, confirmed that the military is aware of the intelligence reports and is actively assessing the situation, assuring that appropriate security measures are being implemented.

Community security stakeholder Basharu Altine Guyawa Isa has raised serious alarms, alleging that Turji is strengthening his fighting force through collaboration with extremist groups, and in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, Isa claimed that the wanted terrorist leader has intensified efforts to strengthen his operational capacity through alliances with extremist groups operating in the region. According to him, intelligence available to local security volunteers indicates that Turji and his associates have established a training camp near the Sokoto-Zamfara border, where recruits are allegedly being trained and armed for future operations, and he further alleged that Boko Haram members have been providing training and logistical support to the fighters, increasing the sophistication of criminal networks operating in the region. Isa further claimed that newly arrived fighters with links to Boko Haram and possessing advanced combat and weapons-handling expertise had entered the area to train and strengthen Turji’s fighters, and he warned of possible coordinated attacks on five local government headquarters in eastern Sokoto before the peak of the rainy season.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Defence Headquarters nor the police commands in Sokoto and Zamfara states had issued official responses to the claims made in Turji’s video, and historically, military authorities have dismissed similar recordings as propaganda intended to exaggerate the capabilities of armed groups and undermine public confidence in ongoing security operations. However, for residents of communities that continue to endure attacks, kidnappings, and displacement, the latest recording is likely to reinforce concerns that some of the region’s most notorious armed groups remain active despite sustained security operations, and Turji has long used videos and audio messages to communicate with supporters, issue threats, announce ceasefires, and respond to military operations targeting his camps. The allegations made by Isa during the interview have not been independently verified, and security authorities have yet to publicly comment on the claims, while efforts to reach the Sokoto State Police Command for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.

“We’re Ready for Talks or War” — Bello Turji Dares FG After Deadly Sokoto Ambush

Oyo School Kidnapping: Troops Tighten Siege as Abductors Drop Key Demands

Fresh hope has emerged for the safe return of the 39 abducted schoolchildren and seven teachers in Oyo State as security agencies intensify operations and tighten the noose around the kidnappers believed to be hiding inside the National Park forest.

Multiple security sources said sustained military offensives have significantly restricted the movement of the abductors, forcing them to scale back some of their earlier demands and focus mainly on ransom negotiations.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when heavily armed men stormed three schools in Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, sparking nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over the growing threat of terrorism and mass abductions in the South-West.

Security sources familiar with the ongoing operation disclosed that troops of the Nigerian Army, working alongside other security agencies, have successfully blocked major escape routes leading out of the National Park forest where the victims are believed to be held.

The operation, supported by aerial surveillance and ground intelligence, has reportedly confined the kidnappers within a narrow forest corridor, making movement increasingly difficult. Officials said security operatives have maintained constant pressure on the armed group, with surveillance teams monitoring strategic routes connecting the forest to neighbouring states and border communities.

According to intelligence reports, the continuous military presence has disrupted the kidnappers’ operations and weakened their negotiating position.

Sources revealed that the abductors initially made a series of far-reaching demands, including the payment of ransom, the release of detained terrorist commanders, the provision of two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related laws.

Among those reportedly requested for release were Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, and his deputy, Abubakar Abba, alias Isah Adam or Mahmud Al-Nigeri. Both men are believed to be senior members of Ansaru, a breakaway faction of Boko Haram, and were arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) last year.

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However, fresh intelligence indicates that the kidnappers have abandoned several of those demands and are now concentrating primarily on ransom negotiations. Security insiders described the development as a sign that the group is coming under increasing pressure as troops continue to close in on their location.

The rescue operation has also received significant support from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), which deployed surveillance aircraft to assist ground troops with real-time intelligence gathering. The aerial operation is aimed at tracking the movement of the kidnappers, identifying possible hideouts and preventing any attempt to relocate the victims through the vast forest terrain.

Security officials believe the combined air and ground operations have significantly reduced the kidnappers’ ability to manoeuvre, increasing optimism that the victims could soon be rescued safely.

The crisis took a tragic turn after reports emerged that one of the abducted teachers was killed while in captivity. Security officials believe the killing was intended to pressure authorities and instill fear among the families of the victims.

The development has heightened anxiety across Oriire Local Government Area, with residents anxiously awaiting positive news from the ongoing rescue mission. President Bola Tinubu condemned the killing and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to securing the release of all remaining victims.

Investigations have revealed that the alleged leader of the kidnapping gang is an indigene of Oriire Local Government Area who reportedly lived within the community before becoming radicalised. Security sources said he later joined the Ansaru terrorist network and adopted extremist ideology.

The affected communities are strategically located near routes linking parts of Nigeria to the Niger Republic and the Kainji axis, making the area vulnerable to movements by armed groups. The dense forest and poor communication infrastructure have also complicated rescue operations.

Security agencies had reportedly received intelligence warnings about possible terrorist attacks targeting schools in the region before the incident occurred. Those warnings led to preventive measures, including the temporary closure of some schools, but the attackers still managed to carry out the coordinated assault that resulted in the abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers.

Security analysts believe sustained offensives against terrorist organisations across Nigeria are forcing insurgents to abandon traditional strongholds and target vulnerable rural communities and schools. Recent operations against Ansaru, Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have reportedly resulted in the elimination of at least 168 high-profile terrorist commanders, while several suspects have been arrested and many insurgents forced to flee into neighbouring countries.

A senior security official expressed confidence that ongoing operations are gradually weakening terrorist networks across the country.

“The war against terrorism will be won. We will not relent in the ongoing offensive until these criminals are either eliminated or forced out of the country. President Bola Tinubu has issued a strong warning to them, and the signs of victory are already becoming evident,” the official said.

As military operations intensify and negotiations evolve, residents of Oriire and neighbouring communities remain hopeful that the 39 abducted pupils and seven teachers will soon regain their freedom. Families of the victims continue to pray for a peaceful resolution as security agencies push deeper into the forest in what officials describe as a decisive phase of the rescue operation.

Oyo School Kidnapping: Troops Tighten Siege as Abductors Drop Key Demands

Bello Turji Boasts of Killing Soldiers as Army Confirms Sokoto Weapons Camp

• Security tensions escalate across eastern Sokoto following deadly IED attack, with intelligence reports indicating Turji’s fighters are conducting military-style drills with newly acquired weapons

SOKOTO, Nigeria — Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has surfaced in a video claiming victory over security personnel following a deadly incident involving troops in Sokoto State. The development comes after an improvised explosive device (IED) reportedly detonated on a military vehicle conveying soldiers to the Bargaja community in Isa Local Government Area, killing at least two personnel and injuring several others.

The soldiers were said to be heading to the community in response to a distress call after bandits attacked the area in the early hours of Saturday. Residents said armed men stormed the village between 12:30 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., firing gunshots and forcing residents to seek assistance from security operatives. One resident, who requested anonymity, alleged that the attackers planted the explosive device along the Isa-Bargaja road before the troops arrived.

In the video released after the incident, Turji expressed satisfaction over the reported deaths of some of those he described as his enemies. “We thank Allah for allowing us to witness this Saturday, June 20. After thanking Allah, in this country of ours, Nigeria, especially in some areas where we have been facing constant challenges,” he said. “God willing, Allah has granted us victory over those who have been rustling our livestock and killing our innocent brothers in some local government areas including Isa, Zamfara, Sokoto State, Sabon Birni and other local government areas around. Allah granted us victory over these people carrying out operations against us and taking away our livestock. We have succeeded in killing some of them, and we have successfully recovered our livestock from their hands.”

The claims made in the video and related social media posts could not be independently verified at the time of filing this report.

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Meanwhile, concerns over security in the region have intensified following allegations that Turji is expanding his operational capacity and acquiring additional weapons. The concerns were raised by Basharu Altine Guyawa Isa, Sokoto State Coordinator of the Movement for Social Justice and Good Governance, who made the claims in a Facebook post and subsequent video.

According to Basharu, fighters loyal to Turji, including Illa Manawa and Bomi, believed to be Turji’s younger brother, recently gathered in communities stretching from Bingabale Kudu through Bafarawa East to Bargaja along the Sokoto-Zamfara border. He alleged that the group was conducting military-style drills and weapons training with newly acquired arms, some of which were reportedly used during recent clashes with security personnel operating in the area.

Basharu further claimed that intelligence reports suggested the weapons were part of a recent shipment obtained by the group. The activist also alleged that fighters with suspected links to Boko Haram had moved into the area to provide training and strengthen Turji’s ranks with advanced combat skills. He said the activities were taking place in communities located along the border between Sokoto and Zamfara states.

In addition, Basharu claimed that information from sources in Binchi indicated that a night-vision device allegedly purchased by Turji formed part of the equipment recently delivered to his camp. He also linked the acquisition and movement of the weapons to Kachalla Haru Dole and Kachalla Ibrahim Chimo, whom he described as commanders operating major bandit camps beyond the Maradun River. According to him, both men played key roles in facilitating the delivery of the weapons to Turji’s network.

The activist further alleged that emerging intelligence pointed to a growing alliance between Chimo and Turji, which he said could be aimed at expanding their influence across eastern parts of Sokoto State. He warned that the alleged collaboration might be part of preparations for coordinated attacks on the headquarters of five local government areas before the height of the rainy season.

Significantly, the Nigerian Army has confirmed that it is aware of the intelligence reports regarding weapons training and tactical drills allegedly being conducted by Turji and his loyalists in parts of Isa Local Government Area . The Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lt. Col. Osoba Olaniyi, assured that the military is actively assessing the situation and implementing appropriate security measures . Security sources further alleged that the exercises involve armed fighters loyal to Turji, including close associates such as Illa Manawa and Dodo, reportedly his younger brother . Preliminary assessments suggest the weapons may form part of a recent supply delivered to the group, raising concerns over an increase in firepower among armed gangs operating in the region .

The alleged drills are reportedly taking place in remote border communities linking Sokoto and Zamfara States, an area that has remained difficult to secure despite ongoing military operations under the campaign known as Operation Fansan Yamma . Investigators have further linked suspected commanders such as Kachalla Haru Dole and Kachalla Ibrahim Chimo to arms movement and coordination across the region .

Hours after making the allegations, Basharu shared another video on Facebook which he claimed showed some of the newly acquired weapons in Turji’s possession. In an accompanying post, he alleged that the footage was released by Turji on June 20, 2026, and displayed some of the weapons referenced in his earlier claims. He also alleged that Turji used the recording to showcase what he described as successful operations against security personnel along the Isa-Bargaja corridor.

Efforts to obtain official reactions from the Sokoto State Police Command were unsuccessful. Calls, text messages, and WhatsApp messages sent to the command’s spokesperson, DSP Ahmad Rufai, were not answered as of the time this report was filed.

The continued violence has taken a heavy toll on rural communities across the North-west, where residents have repeatedly abandoned their farms because of attacks, kidnappings, and demands for protection levies by armed groups. The renewed insecurity comes at a critical period in the farming season, raising concerns among residents and humanitarian organisations about food production and livelihoods in areas already affected by years of conflict.

Bello Turji Boasts of Killing Soldiers as Army Confirms Sokoto Weapons Camp