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

Published

2 months ago

June 22, 2026

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Bello Turji

“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

Related Topics:ambush Featured Sokoto talks war

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Former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun Loses Husband, Niyi Adeosun

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2 hours ago

August 6, 2026

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Former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun and late Husband Adeniyi Adeosun

Former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun Loses Husband, Niyi Adeosun

The Adeosun family has announced the passing of Mr. Anthony Adeniyi (Niyi) Adeosun, husband of former Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun. He died on Tuesday, August 5, 2026, in Lagos at the age of 62.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the family confirmed the news “with profound sorrow, yet in total submission to the will of Almighty God.” The announcement was signed by Reverend C. A. Adeosun on behalf of the family.

According to the family, the late Anthony Adeosun was a distinguished businessman and a devoted Christian whose life was marked by integrity, generosity and unwavering faith. His character and values earned him admiration from all who knew him, as he remained devoted to serving God while making lasting contributions to his family and community. “Niyi was a distinguished businessman and a devoted Christian whose integrity, generosity, and steadfast faith touched the lives of all who knew him. He lived a life defined by hard work, service to God, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community,” the family’s statement read.

The deceased is survived by his wife, former Minister of Finance Kemi Adeosun; his cherished children; and his siblings, including Mr. Adewale (Wale) Adeosun, founder of Kuramo Capital Management, a leading African private equity firm with over $500 million under management. He is also survived by numerous other relatives, friends and associates.

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While mourning his death, the family said it was comforted by its Christian faith and the assurance of eternal rest for believers. They cited Revelation 14:13, which says: “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord… that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”

The family has appealed to the public to respect its privacy as it mourns the loss, noting that details of the funeral and Christian burial arrangements would be announced in due course. The family also expressed appreciation to friends, associates and well-wishers who had reached out with prayers, condolences and support since the news of his passing. “We thank all who have reached out with prayers, condolences, and support. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord,” the statement added.

Mrs. Kemi Adeosun served as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance from 2015 to 2018 under the administration of late former President Muhammadu Buhari. During her tenure, she spearheaded a number of fiscal reforms, including the Whistle-blower policy, the Treasury Single Account (TSA), and the Efficiency Unit, which helped recover billions of naira and improve transparency in public finance. She has since devoted herself to philanthropy, focusing on uplifting vulnerable children and supporting the less privileged.

Former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun Loses Husband, Niyi Adeosun

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176 Kwara Abductees Regain Freedom After Six Months in Captivity

Published

2 hours ago

August 6, 2026

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176 Kwara Abductees Regain Freedom After Six Months in Captivity

The Kwara State Government has confirmed the release of 176 residents abducted during the February 3, 2026 attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area, bringing an end to nearly six months of captivity for the victims. The development was announced on Wednesday through a post on the state government’s official Facebook page by Olayinka Fafoluyi, media aide to Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq. The statement expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and security forces for their role in securing the victims’ freedom. “Alhamdulillaah and kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, security forces, and everyone who played a role in this huge feat. We are grateful!” the statement read.

The victims, who spent 183 days in captivity following their abduction during one of the deadliest attacks in Kwara State’s history, were rescued on Wednesday in what officials described as a joint security operation. Confirming the development, the Chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kwara State, Abubakar Abdullahi Danladi, disclosed that the victims were being held at the Wawa Military Cantonment in neighbouring Niger State pending their transportation back to Kwara. “Yes, it’s true that they have been released, and I can’t tell for now whether ransom was paid or not. They are currently in Wawa Military Cantonment in Niger State because our people are not the only victims released. The Office of the Secretary to the State Government is currently arranging vehicles that will bring them to Ilorin,” Danladi stated.

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The victims were abducted when suspected Boko Haram-linked extremists invaded the rural communities of Woro and Nuku on motorcycles, launching a coordinated assault that reportedly lasted for several hours. The attack, regarded as one of the deadliest in the state’s history, reportedly claimed more than 200 lives, left several others injured, destroyed homes and businesses, and displaced many residents. Local vigilantes who attempted to resist the attackers were reportedly overwhelmed, with some allegedly trapped and burnt inside their operational office. In April, a video circulated on social media showing one of the abducted women appealing to the Kwara State Government to intensify efforts to secure their release. Speaking from captivity alongside fellow victims, the woman disclosed that the group included pregnant women, young children and sick persons. “We are from Woro in Kaiama local government. We were taken on February 3, and today is April 8. This is the last opportunity they have given us,” she said.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Communications, Ibraheem Abdullateef, commended the efforts of security agencies and other stakeholders involved in the operation. He also expressed the state government’s appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and security personnel for their joint roles in securing the victims’ freedom. The member representing Gwanabe/Gweria/Bani/Adena Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, Saidu Baba Ahmed, described the release as a major relief. “Yes, the Woro kidnap victims have been released. I’m very, very excited about this development. We give thanks to President Bola Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and our security operatives,” the lawmaker said. However, the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, said he was yet to receive official confirmation when contacted. “I’m not aware, so I cannot confirm it. I made contacts to Kaiama Local Government; still, I couldn’t get concrete information,” the police commissioner stated.

Authorities have not disclosed the circumstances surrounding the victims’ release, including whether any rescue operation, negotiation or ransom payment led to their freedom. However, top sources in the Kwara State Government and State Security Service indicated that negotiations took place, though they did not mention whether payments were made. Last Friday, Chairman Danladi had dismissed claims that the government had abandoned the abducted residents, stating, “We have not forgotten them. We are collaborating with the state government to get them rescued. But this is a security matter and we cannot disclose everything on the pages of newspapers.” He had expressed confidence that the victims would soon regain their freedom.

176 Kwara Abductees Regain Freedom After Six Months in Captivity

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Nigerian Army Places N60m Bounty on Wanted ISWAP Leaders

Published

3 hours ago

August 6, 2026

Trends Admin

Nigerian Army Places N60m Bounty on Wanted ISWAP Leaders

The Nigerian Army has declared two senior leaders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) wanted, placing a combined N60 million bounty on their heads following a major intelligence breakthrough in the Lake Chad region. The military identified the terrorist commanders after troops recovered and conducted forensic analysis on technical devices, including a camcorder used by ISWAP fighters to record propaganda videos and document their operations.

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) recovered several technical devices and high-value intelligence materials during recent offensive operations against ISWAP/ISIS terrorists in northern Borno State. Forensic exploitation of the recovered devices generated actionable intelligence, leading to the identification of terrorist locations and senior commanders operating within the Mangari–Metele–Dogon Chukun axis along the fringes of the Lake Chad Basin in Abadam and Kukawa Local Government Areas of Borno State. According to Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer of the Northeast Joint Taskforce Operation Hadin Kai, the intelligence haul is one of the most significant breakthroughs in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign.

The military has identified several senior ISWAP leaders and key operatives, including Abu Musa Al-Mangawi Baa Shuwa, who serves as the Wali (Governor of ISIS West Africa Province) and is described as the most wanted terrorist leader currently operating within the Lake Chad Basin. His deputy, Muhammad Jidda, also known as Amirul Jaish or “The One-Handed Man,” serves as the Commander of the Jaish unit. Other identified commanders include Hamad Abu Hanifa, the Amirul-Fiya (field commander) of ISWAP, and Ibn Muhammad, who commands the Amniyya unit. The intelligence poster released by the military contains photographs and aliases of at least 38 suspected ISWAP commanders and fighters believed to be active across northern Borno and the Lake Chad region.

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The military has placed specific bounties on the wanted terrorist leaders, with N50 million offered for Ibn Muhammad, the Commander of the Amniyya unit, and N10 million for Muhammad Jidda, the Commander of the Jaish unit. Operation Hadin Kai has specifically drawn public attention to Abu Musa Al-Mangawi Baa Shuwa, the ISWAP Wali, who remains the most wanted terrorist leader operating within the Lake Chad Basin. The military will offer a substantial financial reward to anyone whose credible and actionable information directly leads to his arrest.

The military has urged members of the public to support ongoing counter-terrorism operations by providing credible and timely information that could assist security agencies in locating and apprehending these suspected terrorist operatives. All information received will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, and the identity of informants will be fully protected in accordance with established security procedures. Citizens are strongly advised not to confront or attempt to apprehend the suspected terrorists under any circumstances. Information can be reported through established security reporting channels or via the dedicated hotline at 0708 498 8859.

The recovery of the camcorder and other technical devices represents a significant blow to ISWAP’s propaganda machinery and command structure. The military believes that denying the insurgents anonymity will disrupt their ability to move, recruit, tax communities and stage attacks. This development follows a broader pattern of pressure on ISWAP’s media and command wings, as in recent related operations, Operation Hadin Kai reportedly killed Abu Salim al-Barnawi, a senior propagandist and former raid commander, during a failed attack in Cross Kauwa. The public release of names, photographs and aliases suggests the military is now pursuing a strategy to deny ISWAP the anonymity it needs to operate effectively in the region.