Turji must release all hostages to prove peace commitment — Sokoto govt

The Sokoto State Government has called on notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, to demonstrate genuine commitment to peace by releasing all kidnapped victims and halting attacks on rural communities.

The Security Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu, Colonel Ahmed Usman (rtd), made the call following a widely circulated audio in which Turji reportedly expressed interest in dialogue and urged other bandit leaders to embrace peace.

Speaking in Sokoto, Usman said while the government welcomed any indication of peace, such claims must be backed by meaningful action.

“If Turji truly wants peace, he must first release all abducted persons unconditionally and stop the violence,” Usman stated.

He emphasized that the safety of rural communities remains a top concern for the state government, stressing that no dialogue can be meaningful while residents live in fear or captivity.

According to him, the government remains open to supporting genuine peace efforts but warned that acts of criminality will not be condoned.

Usman also called on traditional rulers, civil society groups, and religious leaders to collaborate in the push for stability and lasting peace in the region.

Turji must release all hostages to prove peace commitment — Sokoto govt