Infamous bandit kingpin Bello Turji has reportedly imposed a N22 million fine on four villages in Sokoto State after a member of his gang was killed during a recent military raid.
The levy, initially set at N25 million, was later reduced to N22 million following negotiations between the affected villagers and Turji in his new base in eastern Isa Local Government Area (LGA).
Military Withdrawals Leave Villages Vulnerable
Aminu Boza, a lawmaker representing Sabon Birni West in the Sokoto State House of Assembly, revealed that one of the affected villages is Garin Idi, the hometown of Deputy Governor Idris Gobir.
Boza criticized the military for failing to maintain a continuous presence in the region, stating that villages are left at the mercy of bandits whenever troops withdraw.
“I have always criticized the military for not sustaining their operation in the eastern part of Sokoto because anytime they withdraw, it is the villages that bear the brunt,” he lamented.
Despite assurances from the Ministry of Defence, banditry remains a major threat in Sokoto. Boza cited a recent attack in which six members of the Sokoto Community Guards were killed.
Ransom Demands for Abducted Worshippers
Boza further disclosed that Turji is demanding N250,000 per captive from the families of 13 worshippers abducted two weeks ago in Sabon Birni LGA. So far, five hostages have been freed after their families paid the ransom.
Calls for Sustained Military Action
The lawmaker urged the military to intensify and sustain operations in the eastern part of Sokoto, stressing that only a consistent security presence can restore peace and protect vulnerable communities from Turji's growing influence.
Residents remain fearful and frustrated, as bandits continue to exert control over rural communities with little resistance from security forces.
