Turji’s peace talk ’empty’ without release of hostages — Sokoto govt

The Security Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, Colonel Ahmed Usman (rtd), has called on notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, to demonstrate genuine commitment to peace by immediately releasing all kidnapped victims and halting all forms of violence in the region.

Usman’s statement on Sunday comes in response to a viral audio message in which Turji reportedly declared readiness to embrace peace and encouraged fellow bandit leaders to consider dialogue.

While acknowledging the development as potentially significant, the retired military officer emphasised that the Sokoto State Government would only take such declarations seriously if followed by visible, concrete steps.

“If Turji is genuinely committed to peace, he must prove it by stopping all forms of violence and releasing innocent civilians being held captive,” Usman said.

He insisted that any form of negotiation must begin with a clear demonstration of goodwill, adding that no meaningful dialogue could happen while rural communities continued to live in fear of attacks and abductions.

There can be no true dialogue while communities continue to live in fear and captivity. Peace begins with concrete steps that build trust,” he stressed.

Usman reiterated Aliyu’s commitment to restoring peace and safeguarding the lives and property of Sokoto residents, stating that the administration was open to supporting any credible peace initiative—but not at the expense of justice or public safety.

He also urged community leaders, religious clerics, civil society groups, and traditional institutions to support efforts aimed at ending insecurity, saying this was the time for all hands to be on deck.

“This is a chance to end the suffering. Let it begin with the safe return of all abducted individuals,” he added.

The call reflects mounting pressure on bandit leaders in Sokoto and neighbouring states, as both government and local communities intensify efforts to bring an end to years of violence, displacement, and rural instability.