Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has released over 100 captives in Zamfara State as part of a renewed peace initiative under the North West Operation Safe Corridor process. Security sources informed counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama that the release followed dialogue and confidence-building efforts led by community leaders.
The freed captives, including men, women, and children, were handed over to local authorities, received medical examinations, and were reunited with their families.
A source involved in the negotiations revealed that the release, which began with 36 captives followed by eight more, and eventually totaled over 100, was part of an agreement with Turji’s camp to end hostilities. Further releases are anticipated as discussions continue. Security operatives are monitoring the process to ensure its credibility and prevent other groups from exploiting it to regroup or rearm.
In a related development, at least 12 local government areas (LGAs) in Katsina State, including Batsari, Kankara, Kurfi, Musawa, Danmusa, Jibia, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, Malumfashi, Funtua, and Bakori, have signed peace accords with bandits to curb attacks and kidnappings. The latest meeting in Kakumi, Bakori LGA, involved bandit representatives and delegates from the three additional LGAs.
Some security stakeholders warn that such deals may empower bandits by providing funds to acquire sophisticated weapons for future attacks. However, affected communities argue they have no choice but to negotiate with bandits to protect their lives and properties due to inadequate security support.
