Zamfara: Bandit leader Turji confirms peace talks, slams cleric

Notorious bandit Bello Turji has confirmed that negotiations are underway to end violence and insecurity across Zamfara and other parts of the North-West region.

The development was disclosed in a post on Thursday by security analyst Zagazola Makama via his X handle.

According to the report, the discussions are aimed at restoring peace and enabling both Fulani herders and Hausa farmers to return to their livelihoods without fear of attack or oppression.

“What we want is peace, peace that will enable Fulani herders and Hausa farmers to live without fear or oppression,” Turji stated in Hausa.

However, the bandit kingpin launched a verbal attack on Islamic cleric Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada, who had recently denied the existence of any ongoing negotiations.

“You sit in the hall (mosque) surrounded by people and on social media saying there are no talks. If you are brave, come and lead the security forces to arrest me yourself since that is what you always preach,” Turji said.

Zamfara: Bandit leader Turji confirms peace talks, slams cleric