Notorious bandit leader in Nigeria, Bello Turji has openly praised and hailed Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as his ally.
Turji, responsible for several high-profile terrorist attacks in Northwest Nigeria, referred to General Musa as “Shugaban mu mai Albarka” (our leader) and suggested that he should grant Musa Asada, an Islamic scholar, a military or paramilitary appointment.
The claim which was made via a now-deleted video clip on TikTok has sparked widespread debate and concern, with many questioning the integrity of the Nigerian military, particularly General Musa’s role in combating insecurity.
Your days are numbered – Defence Chief replies Turji
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has vowed to capture the notorious bandit kingpin, describing him as a “deranged individual” who feels empowered but will soon face justice.
Although he did not react to the bandit’s claim he (Musa) is his leader and ally, General Musa warned Turji that his end is near.
“He is just a deranged individual who feels power, but I can bet you that it’s just a matter of time. We’re going to get him, and I can assure you that it will be within the shortest possible time,” General Musa stated.
Turji, infamous for orchestrating attacks on Zamfara residents and imposing a 30 million naira levy for their protection, the Defence Chief assured that it will soon come to an end.
“That is what they live on. And it shows you the desperation they are in. One, even when they get the money, they don’t have a way to use it. Two is that the money they’re getting, they know, is blood money.”
He urged citizens to withhold support and information from the bandits, stressing that community informants have aided their operations. “Please do not give them any support. Do not give them information on the movement of troops because this is what is happening.”
*Government under pressure
The Nigerian government is under increasing pressure to address the growing insecurity in the Northwest region.
The Ministry of Defence has assured citizens that the military is committed to protecting the nation and will not be swayed by Turji’s propaganda.