Bandit kingpin Bello Turji says he’s ready for peace or war, challenges Nigerian government.

Bandit leader Bello Turji has claimed responsibility for recent attacks on security personnel in Sokoto and Zamfara states, and said he is open to dialogue with the government.

The claim was made in a video that circulated online and was reportedly filmed on June 20, 2026.

In the Hausa‑language video, a masked figure believed to be Turji appeared with armed men in military‑style camouflage and spoke about ongoing clashes in the North‑West.

The speaker alleged that communities in Shinkafi, Zamfara State, and Sabon Birni, Sokoto State, had suffered attacks and livestock seizures.

“Some people who are chasing away our livestock are killing our innocent brothers and sisters, people who have done nothing wrong, in places such as Shinkafi in Zamfara State, Sabon Birni in Sokoto State and other surrounding areas,” the speaker said.

He also said his group had carried out retaliatory attacks against those they claimed were targeting their communities.

“Allah granted us victory over these people who are carrying out these operations and driving away our livestock,” he stated.

He also spoke about the possibility of peace talks, stating that his group would engage if the government was ready to negotiate.

“If the government is ready for negotiation, we are also ready for negotiation,” he said.

He added that the group would continue armed confrontation if military operations continued.

“But if they want to continue with force, we are prepared. Our fighters are ready for whatever comes,” the speaker stated.