Fear has gripped Zamfara State as over 50 communities in Shinkafi Local Government Area have been abandoned following threats by notorious bandit kingpin Bello Turji.
The armed gang leader recently released a video warning of devastating attacks on Shinkafi, Zurmi, and Isah Local Government Areas in Zamfara and Sokoto states if his brother, Baka Wurgi, detained by the military, is not freed.
During a press conference at his residence in Gusau, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, an All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart, revealed that more than 80% of Shinkafi residents have fled to neighboring Kaura-Namoda for safety.
Dr. Shinkafi stated, “Since Turji’s video was released, over 50 communities in Shinkafi Local Government Area have been deserted. This mass exodus is a direct response to the threats made by the bandits.”
Turji, a notorious figure in the region, issued the video warning last Wednesday, demanding his brother’s release before the end of the year. He threatened widespread destruction if his demand is not met.
Dr. Shinkafi condemned the threats, describing them as an insult to the Nigerian military and other security agencies. He urged swift action from the government to neutralize Turji and prevent the looming catastrophe.
“This is a direct challenge to our national security apparatus,” Shinkafi stated. “I call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the military to act decisively and protect innocent communities from imminent attacks.”
The situation stems from the December 14 arrest of Baka Wurgi, also known as Baba Na Garba, a suspected top bandit involved in the killing of the Emir of Gobir, Alhaji Isah Mohammed Bawa, in Sokoto State.
The mass displacement underscores the growing insecurity in the region, with residents calling on the government to restore peace and stability to their communities.
