Nigerian Bandit Leader Bello Turji Admits Meeting Zamfara Ex-Governor Matawalle, Calls for Their Arrest

Nigerian bandit leader Bello Turji has publicly admitted that he met with officials of the Zamfara State government during the administration of former governor Bello Matawalle, now Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence. The revelation, made through a viral audio message, has reignited national outrage and reopened debates over the controversial peace negotiations between government officials and armed groups in Nigeria’s North-West.

The admission comes amid fresh allegations that Turji received ₦30 million during the engagement — a claim he has vehemently denied, describing it as a fabrication aimed at damaging his image and rewriting the history of the peace process.

Nigerian Bandit Leader Bello Turji and the Zamfara Peace Talks

Nigerian bandit leader Bello Turji confirmed that the meeting with Zamfara officials was part of a broader peace initiative designed to curb escalating violence, kidnappings, and displacement in rural communities.

At the height of banditry in Zamfara, successive governments explored dialogue as a temporary strategy to reduce attacks. According to Turji, the engagement was never meant to enrich him but to find a path toward peace.

However, critics argue that such negotiations emboldened armed groups and weakened state authority.

Bello Turji Denies ₦30 Million Payoff Allegation

The controversy intensified after Musa Kamara, a former peace mediator appointed by the Zamfara State government, alleged that Bello Turji was paid ₦30 million.

In response, Nigerian bandit leader Bello Turji dismissed the claim outright.

“By Allah, since I was born, I have never possessed even five million naira,” Turji said in the audio recording. “We were never given that ₦30 million you are talking about.”

He further insisted that he did not receive even ₦3 million, calling the allegation “a lie built on betrayal.”

Accusations of False Testimony Against Peace Mediator

Bello Turji accused Musa Kamara of giving false testimony and betraying the trust established during negotiations.

According to Turji, Kamara’s statements misrepresented the entire peace process and endangered lives by reigniting tensions.

He claimed that the peace initiative initially reduced violence before collapsing due to dishonesty and political manipulation.

Allegations Against Former Zamfara and Sokoto Leaders

In one of the most explosive parts of the audio message, Nigerian bandit leader Bello Turji accused former political leaders in Zamfara and Sokoto states of fuelling insecurity.

He alleged that some former governors, alongside Ahmed Sani Yerima, armed groups and encouraged vigilante formations that targeted Fulani communities.

Turji called for their arrest and thorough investigation, claiming they bear responsibility for the prolonged crisis.

Calls for Arrest and Accountability

“We say openly that former governors of Zamfara and Sokoto are responsible for the calamities that befell these states,” Turji claimed.

His demand for arrests has sparked intense debate, with many Nigerians questioning whether past political leaders should be investigated for their roles in security failures.

Security analysts argue that accountability is essential for long-term peace.

“We Are Not Politicians” – Turji Distances Himself

Nigerian bandit leader Bello Turji attempted to distance himself from political affiliations, insisting that neither he nor his group are tools of politicians.

“We are not politicians, and we are not tools of politicians. There is no human being backing us,” he said.

This claim contrasts sharply with intelligence reports suggesting armed groups often benefit from political patronage.

Bello Turji’s Violent Record in North-West Nigeria

Despite his defence, Bello Turji has been linked to mass killings, kidnappings, cattle rustling, and large-scale displacement across Zamfara, Sokoto, and neighbouring states.

Nigerian security agencies have identified him as one of the most dangerous bandit leaders operating in the region.

The military has previously declared him wanted for terror-related activities.

Why Bello Turji’s Audio Message Matters

The audio message matters because it provides rare insight into alleged behind-the-scenes dealings between armed groups and government officials.

It also exposes the fragile nature of peace negotiations conducted without transparency or accountability.

For victims of bandit attacks, the message reopens painful memories.

Government Negotiations With Bandits: A Failed Strategy?

Nigeria has experimented with dialogue, amnesty, and negotiations as short-term security strategies.

While some communities experienced temporary relief, critics argue the approach legitimised criminal networks.

The Bello Turji controversy reinforces arguments for stronger law enforcement and justice-driven solutions.

Public Reaction Across Nigeria

Nigerians reacted strongly to the revelations, with many expressing anger on social media.

Some believe negotiations were necessary to save lives, while others see them as a betrayal of victims.

The debate highlights the deep mistrust between citizens and political leaders.

Security Agencies and National Response

Nigerian security agencies have reiterated that armed groups like Bello Turji’s remain legitimate targets.

Officials warn that any dialogue must be backed by disarmament and prosecution.

Renewed operations in the North-West suggest a shift toward tougher enforcement.

The Human Cost of Banditry

Banditry has devastated communities, forcing thousands into displacement camps.

Schools have closed, farmlands abandoned, and livelihoods destroyed.

The focus on negotiations often overshadows the suffering of victims.

Internal and External Context

Read more breaking security updates on HotGistLoaded.

For international coverage on Nigeria’s insecurity, see BBC News Africa.

Final Thoughts on Nigerian Bandit Leader Bello Turji

The admission by Nigerian bandit leader Bello Turji that he met with Zamfara officials has reopened uncomfortable questions about governance, accountability, and security strategy.

Whether his claims are truthful or self-serving, they underscore the complexity of Nigeria’s insecurity crisis.

As investigations and military operations continue, Nigerians demand transparency, justice, and lasting peace.