Governor Raises Concerns Over Turji’s Broken Agreements
Overview of Turji’s Activities
Bello Turji Kachalla, commonly known as Turji, is a notorious bandit and warlord who has terrorized Nigeria’s North-West, particularly in Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Niger states. Unlike insurgents such as the late Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, who justified his actions under the guise of an Islamic jihad, Turji operates primarily as a gang leader seeking dominance over ungoverned areas in North-West and North-Central Nigeria.
Turji’s Political Backing and Descent into Banditry
According to reports, Turji initially received backing from corrupt politicians who allegedly sought to destabilize the administration of then-President Goodluck Jonathan. These political figures hoped to create unrest if Muhammadu Buhari lost the 2015 presidential election. However, after Buhari's victory, the politicians abandoned Turji, leaving him to turn to criminal activities such as cattle rustling and kidnapping for ransom.
Over the past decade, Turji has built a powerful, heavily armed group responsible for numerous attacks on rural communities and larger towns across the region.
Repeated Failure of Amnesty Agreements
Several state governors have attempted to negotiate with Turji, offering him amnesty deals in exchange for peace. Unfortunately, these efforts have failed time and again. As one governor pointed out, “Every time we reach an agreement, Turji breaks it after receiving payment.” These repeated breaches of trust have cast doubt on any future negotiations with the bandit leader.
Skepticism Surrounding Turji’s Reconciliation Offers
Recently, Turji released a video offering reconciliation. However, this gesture has been met with widespread skepticism. According to analysts, criminals like Turji often propose peace deals when they feel military pressure. “Criminals often make such offers when they are under siege,” one analyst explained, hinting that Turji’s offer could be a strategic ploy rather than a genuine attempt at peace.
Call for Military Action Against Turji’s Gang
An editorial has argued that the Nigerian government must take decisive military action against Turji and his gang. It emphasizes that there is no justification for making deals with individuals responsible for widespread violence, loss of lives, and continued insecurity in the region. The article concludes by urging Nigerians to support the armed forces in their efforts to neutralize these threats, stating, “We must prioritize the safety of our citizens over any reconciliation with criminals.
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