A notorious bandit leader,Bello Turji has imposed a N22 million levy on four villages in Sokoto State after a military raid led to the death of one of his gang members and the loss of firearms. One of the affected villages is Garin Idi, the hometown of Deputy Governor Idris Gobir.
Aminu Boza, a lawmaker representing Sabon Birni West, revealed that Turji has relocated to the eastern part of Isa Local Government Area (LGA) and compared him to a businessman overseeing multiple “shops.” Initially, the demanded sum was N25 million, but it was reduced to N22 million after negotiations.
Boza criticized the military for failing to maintain a consistent presence in the region, making villages vulnerable to further attacks. He also highlighted a recent attack where six members of the Sokoto Community Guards were killed.
Additionally, Turji is demanding N250,000 per person as ransom for 13 worshippers abducted in Sabon Birni LGA, with five captives already released after ransom payments.
The lawmaker urged the military to intensify and sustain operations in the region to protect communities and restore peace.
