By Ezinwanne Onwuka
Nigerian Military Declares Bandit Leader Bello Turji a “Dead Man Walking”
Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader in Nigeria, has been labeled a “dead man walking” by the country’s military after he threatened unrelenting attacks in Northwest Zamfara State and demanded the release of his associate, Baka Wurgi.
Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Abuja’s Defense Media Operations, dismissed Turji’s threats. “Bello Turji is merely a dead man walking,” Buba said, according to The Punch. “Before him, others who dared to boast against security forces have all been neutralized. The same fate awaits Turji and his likes.”
Buba reported the military’s achievements in 2024, stating that 10,937 terrorists were killed, 12,538 arrested, and 7,063 hostages rescued.
“2024 showed us signs of major victories ahead. Victory in 2025 is non-negotiable,” Buba declared, expressing confidence in the military’s continued success.
Fulani Leaders Meet Bandit Leader Bello Turji to De-escalate Tensions
Fulani leaders from Shinkafi, Moriki, and Zurmi regions in Zamfara State met with high-profile bandit leader Bello Turji in an attempt to resolve rising tensions in the area, according to a report by Zagazola Makama.
The meeting was to persuade Turji to lift his blockade of the Shinkafi–Gusau road and abandon plans to attack communities in Zamfara and Sokoto States. The bandit leader’s threats stem from the recent arrest of his associates, including Wurgi.
The leaders, known as Ardo Ardo, urged Turji to reconsider his violent plans, which include kidnappings and killings in 2025 if his demands remain unmet. Turji has yet to commit to halting his threats.
Nigeria and Australia Issue Reciprocal Travel Warnings Amid Rising Security Concerns
The Australian government has issued a stark warning to its citizens about traveling to Nigeria, citing “the volatile security situation and the threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and the risk of civil unrest.”
The advisory highlights specific regions, including Adamawa, Borno, and Zamfara, as high-risk areas. “There’s a high risk of terrorist attacks across Nigeria by various militant groups,” the advisory stated, adding that potential targets include public places and foreign interests.
In response, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised Nigerians traveling to Australia to exercise caution due to a recent surge in antisemitic and Islamophobic hate crimes. An incident in Sydney’s Woollahra suburb, where a car was set ablaze and anti-Israel graffiti appeared, was cited.
“Nigerians are therefore advised to be mindful of the prevailing cultural and social dynamics to ensure their safety and comfort. To this end, extra vigilance and necessary precautions are strongly recommended,” the ministry stated Tuesday.
Explosion Kills 7 ISWAP Terrorists in Nigeria’s Lake Chad Basin
At least seven members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) were killed on December 30, 2024, in an explosion while assembling improvised explosive devices (IEDs), sources confirmed to Zagazola Makama.
The explosion took place between Ba’anfani and Koleram in the Lake Chad Basin, a region notorious for insurgent activities. ISWAP, a splinter faction of the Boko Haram jihadist group, is one of the most active terror organizations in West Africa, known for attacks on civilians, military targets, and infrastructure across Nigeria and its neighbors.
Sources revealed that the militants were preparing the IEDs for an intended attack. The group frequently employs such devices as part of its campaign of violence in the region.
Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
