Bello Turji confirms peace talks with Tinubu government in new video message

DDM News

(DDM) – Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has confirmed that he is currently engaged in negotiations with the Federal Government to end violence in Zamfara and surrounding states.

This confirmation came via a new video message that surfaced online on Thursday, shared by counterinsurgency expert Zagazola Makama on X (formerly Twitter).

Turji, speaking in Hausa, stated that the discussions are intended to foster lasting peace and enable both Fulani herders and Hausa farmers to coexist without fear or oppression.

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

DDM reports that the video has sparked mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians questioning the logic of negotiating with a terrorist leader accused of widespread killings and kidnappings.

Bello Turji is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous armed militants operating in Nigeria’s North West.

He has been linked to several high-profile attacks, including massacres, abductions, and raids on security posts across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina States.

Turji’s video message also included a verbal attack on Islamic cleric Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada, who recently claimed that no negotiations were taking place.

“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.

The statement appeared to be a direct challenge to the cleric’s credibility, and a reflection of Turji’s confidence that the state cannot apprehend him.

Despite Turji’s claims, DDM gathered that neither the Federal Government nor Zamfara State authorities have officially confirmed any dialogue with the terror kingpin.

However, this would not be the first time that state or federal officials have opted for behind-the-scenes engagement with criminal groups in the North West.

Previous attempts at dialogue with bandit leaders have faced strong public backlash, particularly from families of victims and civil society groups who view such talks as legitimizing terrorism.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) also recently confirmed that Turji has not been killed or arrested, countering earlier rumors of his elimination.

Turji’s resurfacing in this video message is likely to reignite debate over the Federal Government’s approach to tackling insecurity.

Many Nigerians continue to demand a tougher military stance and more transparency around peace deals or amnesty negotiations.

Security experts have repeatedly warned that negotiations with violent non-state actors often fail due to lack of sincerity, fragmentation among armed groups, and the absence of lasting guarantees.

Meanwhile, farming communities in Zamfara and neighboring states remain under threat, with recent attacks displacing thousands and limiting access to farmlands.

Human rights groups have also documented numerous atrocities linked to Turji’s camp, including the mass killings in Goronyo, Jibia, and other parts of the North West.

Critics argue that any negotiation with such a figure must be anchored on justice, disarmament, and accountability for past crimes, or risk setting a dangerous precedent for future criminality.

As the video continues to trend across social media, pressure is mounting on the Tinubu administration to clarify its position on Turji’s claims and adopt a coherent strategy for restoring peace in the North West.

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