Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has issued a chilling ultimatum to residents of Isa Local Government Area in Sokoto State, demanding they drain a local dam or face deadly consequences.
According to security analyst Bakatsine, who shared the information on social media platform X on Monday, Turji claims the dam is hindering his group's movement in the area.
"Bandit kingpin Bello Turji has vowed to force villagers in Isa LGA, Sokoto State to drain their dam, warning of brutal consequences for defiance. How is a terrorist bragging like a ruler?" Bakatsine wrote.
Growing Concerns Over Bandit Control
This latest threat highlights the growing audacity of bandit groups in Nigeria's northwestern region, where they increasingly operate with impunity and attempt to exert control over local communities and resources.
Turji, who has been linked to numerous attacks in Sokoto State, appears to be expanding his demands beyond ransom payments to now include control over critical infrastructure that affects local livelihoods.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities have yet to officially respond to the incident, raising concerns about the government's ability to protect rural communities from such threats.
Sokoto's Approach to Banditry
The Sokoto State government has previously indicated openness to dialogue with bandits operating in the region. In earlier statements, state officials clarified that their decision to negotiate with bandits was "not out of weakness" but as part of a multifaceted approach to addressing insecurity.
This latest development comes amid reports of continued attacks in Sokoto communities, with Turji's group being implicated in violence that has claimed multiple lives in recent months.
The dam in question serves as a vital resource for the local community, providing water for agricultural activities and domestic use. Draining it would likely cause significant hardship for residents already struggling with insecurity.
Security experts have repeatedly called for a more robust response to banditry in Nigeria's northwest, warning that allowing criminal groups to make such demands undermines state authority and emboldens further criminal activity.
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