The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has disclosed that notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji is in a state of panic due to heightened military operations targeting terrorists in Nigeria’s North West region. During an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the agency’s inaugural Annual International Lecture in Abuja, Musa attributed Turji’s distress to the recent elimination of Halilu Buzu and other high-ranking terrorist commanders.
Musa’s remarks underline the impact of the ongoing military offensive, which aims to dismantle long-established terrorist networks in the area. He noted that the recent developments have instilled fear within Turji’s faction, prompting signs of desperation from the notorious gang leader.
“The actions he is taking clearly indicate that he is panicking,” Musa stated. “He was previously bold enough to speak as if he was the sole leader, but now he realizes he is not in control. The death of Halilu Buzu, who was his mentor, has sent a strong message to him that his time may be running out.”
The CDS reiterated the military’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the region, emphasizing that operations will continue until many of the terrorists are neutralized. He highlighted that the long-standing insecurity in the North West stems from a combination of poverty, illiteracy, and ineffective governance, which have left many youths vulnerable to recruitment by terrorist groups.
Musa also addressed Nigeria’s extensive borders with Niger and Benin Republic, noting that these porous borders allow for the movement of people and could facilitate the operations of terrorist elements. He assured that efforts are underway to secure these borders and prevent the infiltration of militants into the country.
The situation reflects the Nigerian Armed Forces’ ongoing commitment to combating terrorism and restoring stability in the region, with hopes that continued military pressure will further weaken the influence of figures like Turji and his network.
