Controversial bandit leader Bello Turji has confirmed that peace negotiations are currently underway to end the widespread insecurity in Zamfara State and the larger North-West region of Nigeria.
The revelation was made in a post by security analyst Zagazola Makama on Thursday via his official X handle (formerly Twitter), where he shared updates on the bandit leader’s recent statements. Turji expressed his willingness to cooperate in talks aimed at ending attacks, promoting peaceful coexistence between Fulani herders and Hausa farmers, and allowing people to return to normal life.
Speaking in Hausa, Turji said, “What we want is peace — peace that will enable Fulani herders and Hausa farmers to live without fear or oppression.”
However, Turji used the opportunity to slam a prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada, who had recently denied that any peace talks were taking place. The bandit leader issued a direct challenge to the cleric, calling him out for spreading false information.
“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,” Turji declared in a fiery statement.
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The development has sparked renewed debate over the legitimacy and risks of negotiating with known criminals. Critics argue that it may undermine state authority, while supporters claim it’s a pragmatic approach to a decade-long crisis.
Turji’s group has been linked to multiple attacks, killings, and kidnappings in Zamfara and neighboring states. Though the government has previously denied entering formal negotiations with bandits, this revelation adds fresh complexity to the narrative.
There has been no official response yet from the Nigerian government or the Zamfara State authorities regarding the authenticity or outcome of these peace discussions.
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