Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has confirmed that peace negotiations are currently underway to end the prolonged violence and insecurity plaguing Zamfara State and other parts of Northwestern Nigeria.
According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who shared this development on Thursday via his X handle, the discussions aim to restore peace and enable both Fulani herders and Hausa farmers to return to their normal livelihoods without fear of attacks or oppression.
Speaking in Hausa, Turji emphasized the desire for sustainable peace in the region: "What we want is peace, peace that will enable Fulani herders and Hausa farmers to live without fear or oppression."
However, the bandit kingpin did not hold back in criticizing Islamic cleric Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada, who had recently denied the existence of any ongoing peace negotiations. In a direct challenge to the cleric, Turji stated: "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."
This confirmation comes amid escalating security concerns in Zamfara State, which has been a hotspot for banditry, kidnappings, and violent attacks in recent years. The Nigerian military has conducted several operations in the region, including recent airstrikes targeting bandit hideouts.
The peace negotiations, if successful, could potentially mark a turning point in the security situation of Northwestern Nigeria, where thousands of civilians have been displaced, killed, or kidnapped due to bandit activities.
BenriNews will continue to monitor developments regarding these peace talks and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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