Turji’s Surrender Is a Survival Move, Not Repentance – Makama Warns

Prominent counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, has dismissed the recent video by wanted bandit leader Bello Turji, describing his call for peace as a survival tactic rather than a sincere gesture of repentance.

Turji, who appeared in a viral video over the weekend, claimed he was ready to surrender and embrace peace, stirring public debate across the country.

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Makama, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), said the move stemmed from the collapse of Turji’s operational strength. He added that Turji is surrendering only because his violent network has lost its power.

“This is not about peace. It’s about survival,” Makama said.

One of the major blows to Turji’s gang was the death of his key commander, Danbokolo, during a recent joint operation involving Nigeria’s State Security Services and the Hybrid Forces, which include members of the Civilian Joint Task Force.

Sources identified Danbokolo as the mastermind behind most of the group’s violent attacks, including ambushes, executions, and raids on rural communities

Makama described Turji as more of a frontman, while Danbokolo was the real muscle of the group. “Turji was the voice. Danbokolo was the blade. Once Danbokolo fell, Turji’s confidence vanished with him,” one local security source stated.

The government is currently evaluating Turji’s surrender message. According to reports, security agencies are taking a cautious approach, analyzing the risks involved before deciding whether or not to accept his disarmament proposal.

Security experts, however, caution that Turji’s surrender alone will not end banditry in Nigeria’s Northwest, where other armed factions still pose a serious threat. The situation demands continuous surveillance, coordinated intelligence, and targeted action across affected states.

Premium Times first reported that Nigerian authorities should tread carefully when considering any form of amnesty for violent actors.”

For further updates and verified insights, check our Security News section on GistsNaija.