In a surprising development, notorious North West Nigerian bandit leader Bello Turji is reportedly seeking peace following the recent death of his top field commander and cousin, Kachalla Yellow Danbokolo. Danbokolo, who was the operational backbone of Turji’s terror network, was neutralized by security forces in a joint operation late last month, delivering a significant blow to the bandit group’s capabilities.
According to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, Turji is said to be calling for a meeting with other bandit factions to explore the possibility of surrendering and entering into dialogue with the governments of Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina States. This move is seen as a tactical response to the mounting pressure from security operations and the loss of Danbokolo, who orchestrated violent raids, ambushes, and mass abductions across the region.
Sources familiar with the group’s structure explain that while Turji has been the public face of the bandit network, it was Danbokolo who led the fighting forces and managed logistics, making him the true engine of their violent campaigns. With his death, Turji’s operational strength has been severely weakened.
However, security analysts caution that Turji’s overture for peace may not stem from genuine repentance but rather from a strategic attempt to regroup amid losses. Intelligence sources advise the government to reject any plea for surrender and maintain a firm stance against the bandit leader, emphasizing that engagement should focus on neutralizing Turji rather than negotiating with him.
Security agencies have yet to officially comment on the reported peace gestures, but the situation marks a critical moment in the ongoing fight against banditry in Nigeria’s North West, where communities hope for an end to the violence that has plagued them for years.