In a recent video, notorious bandit Bello Turji launched verbal attacks against former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, and Sokoto-based Islamic cleric, Murtala Asada. Turji criticized Asada, who has consistently condemned the bandit’s activities and urged the government to take stronger action against him.
Turji sarcastically suggested that the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, appoint Asada as a military commander, mocking his criticism. In response, the Chief of Defence Staff assured that the military was closing in on Turji and would soon capture him alive.
Turji also accused Pantami of hypocrisy, referring to an old video where Pantami allegedly labeled government officials as non-believers. Pantami had faced public outcry in 2021 over past extremist comments, although the presidency defended him, stating his views had evolved.
Turji has been responsible for numerous attacks across northwestern Nigeria, including killings, kidnappings, and cattle rustling. His group recently looted an armoured vehicle abandoned by military forces in Zamfara State and has carried out deadly raids in Sokoto.
