A non-partisan group, the North-West Women Development Forum (NWDF), has asked notorious bandit leader Bello Turji to lay down his arms and embrace peace, in line with the Nigerian military’s non-violent approach to ending the conflict.
The group also praised the Armed Forces of Nigeria for killing Turji’s top aide, Kallamu Buzu, during an operation in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The women made the call on Friday in Abuja after holding prayers for peace in the North-West, the entire country, and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Buzu and several other fighters were killed by troops of the 8 Division and Sector 2 Joint Task Force under Operation Hadarin Daji.
Reports say Turji was deeply shaken by the news and later threatened revenge, allegedly blaming another lieutenant for the mistakes that led to Buzu’s death during a failed attack on local traders.
Speaking for the group, NWDF Public Relations Officer, Salamatu Bello, said people in the region are pleased with the way the military is dealing with bandits and terrorists.
She explained that the women gathered to pray for Allah’s intervention to restore peace and to support the armed forces and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede.
She also said prayers were offered for soldiers who lost their lives while defending the country.
We cannot continue like this. As mothers, we are happy with the quiet but firm way the military is handling these criminals. We appeal to Bello Turji to surrender before it is too late,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Sokoto State Government has also praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for the successful operation.
The governor’s security aide, Ahmed Usman, commended the soldiers for their speed, professionalism, and bravery, saying their action prevented a possible tragedy.
He said the state appreciates the sacrifices of security personnel and urged them to keep up the pressure on criminals in Sokoto State and across the entire North-West region.
