Nigeria: Two former governors accused of fueling insecurity

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

SOKOTO – Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has claimed that two former northern governors are responsible for the ongoing insecurity in the region, especially in the North‑West. In a video that circulated on social media yesterday, Turji alleged that past administrations in Zamfara and Sokoto states armed vigilante groups known as “Yan Banga,” which he said disproportionately targeted Fulani communities and escalated violence.

Turji also confirmed that he had participated in a series of peace meetings with the Zamfara State government during the tenure of a former governor, but he denied receiving any payment or material inducement for his involvement. He specifically rejected a claim that he was given N30 million to take part in the talks.

Efforts to reach the two former governors for comment were unsuccessful; they did not answer phone calls or respond to text and WhatsApp messages. Sources close to the governors dismissed Turji’s statements, describing them as the lies of a terrorist who seeks to portray himself as a victim.

“Why would anyone put a premium on the words of a terrorist? It is clear he is trying to present himself as a victim. It is all lies.” – source close to one governor

Another source added: “Turji is telling lies. A serial killer is the one you want to believe. All that he has said is false.”

The Ministry of Justice and the Office of the Attorney‑General of the Federation did not comment on the allegations. The EFCC and other security agencies have previously labelled Turji as one of the most dangerous armed‑group leaders operating in the North‑West and have declared him wanted for terror‑related activities.

Turji’s accusations come amid a series of peace negotiations that involved former peace negotiator Musa Kamarawa, who was engaged by both state governments to facilitate non‑kinetic engagement with bandit groups. Kamarawa had earlier claimed that Turji received N30 million for his participation in talks at Government House in Gusau. Turji denied the allegation, stating that he never possessed even five million naira and that any meetings were solely aimed at reducing violence and restoring peace.

In a separate operation, security forces killed another notorious bandit, Kachalla Na’Allah, in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State. Na’Allah, a cousin of the infamous bandit leader Ibrahim Chimmo, was shot dead during an interception between Girnashe and Kuka Tara villages. The joint effort involved the Mobile Police, community guard operatives, and the Nigerian Army.

The Special Adviser to Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, retired Colonel Ahmad Usman, praised the military and other agencies for the continued successes in the fight against banditry.