‘We are ready for war’ – Bandit kingpin Bello Turji issues fresh threat to government

Notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, has said his group is willing to enter negotiations with the Nigerian government but remains fully prepared for armed confrontation if dialogue is not pursued.

Very Nigerian reports that Turji made the remarks in a video recorded in Hausa and dated June 20, 2026, in which he addressed ongoing tensions between his group and security forces.

In the video, the bandit kingpin expressed conditional openness to peace talks, stating that his group would respond depending on the government’s approach.

“If the government is ready for negotiation, we are also ready for negotiation. But if they want to continue with force, we are prepared. Our fighters are ready for whatever comes,” he said.

Turji further insisted that his fighters would not surrender to military pressure, warning that they were prepared to resist any armed offensive.

“We are ready for peace, but if they choose war, we are also ready. We will defend ourselves,” he added.

The development comes days after a deadly attack along the Isa–Bargaja axis in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, where suspected terrorists believed to be loyal to Turji reportedly ambushed security operatives responding to a distress call.

Local and security sources claimed that an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated during the operation, resulting in the death of at least four soldiers, although military authorities have not officially confirmed the casualty figures.

The latest video has further heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of the North-West, where armed groups continue to operate despite ongoing military operations and reported peace overtures.

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