We’re monitoring Bello Turji – Sokoto govt assures residents 

The Sokoto State Government has urged residents to remain calm, saying it is closely monitoring security developments following reports that notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has acquired advanced weapons and hired mercenaries to train his fighters.

Speaking to journalists, Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s Special Adviser on Security Matters, retired Col. Ahmed Usman, said security agencies were aware of activities in banditry-prone areas and were taking steps to address any threats.

“Security is a continuous process, and as a government, we take every intelligence report seriously. We are working closely with the military, police, intelligence agencies and other security formations to ensure that criminal elements do not have the opportunity to threaten the peace and stability of our state,” he said.

Usman noted that the state government had strengthened support for security agencies through the provision of operational vehicles, motorcycles, communication equipment, fuel and other resources.

He added that the governor had also approved funding to support security operations, intelligence gathering and community-based security efforts.

According to him, criminals often use propaganda and misinformation to create fear among residents, but stressed that security forces were capable of dealing with threats.

“While we will never underestimate any threat, we are confident in the capacity and preparedness of our security forces to confront and neutralise criminal elements,” he said.

He appealed to residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information.

“I therefore urge residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, while continuing to support security agencies with credible and timely information,” Usman said.

He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to maintain peace and protect communities across Sokoto State.