The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has disclosed that the Nigerian military’s intensified operations have forced notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji to go into hiding. Appearing on Channels TV’s 2024 Year-In-Review program, General Musa revealed that ongoing efforts to dismantle Turji’s network have resulted in the elimination of key commanders and the arrest of several close associates.
According to the CDS, more than 120,000 terrorists have surrendered to the military. He emphasized that many were coerced into insurgency, while others were directly involved in orchestrating violent acts. The military, he said, has been carefully identifying individuals to distinguish the masterminds from those forced into the conflict. He assured Nigerians that those found guilty of terrorism will face the full weight of the law.
General Musa affirmed that it is only a matter of time before Turji, a bandit leader responsible for terrorizing communities in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, is captured. He revealed that targeted operations have crippled Turji’s network, cutting off his support system and neutralizing his top lieutenants.
“Since he knows we are after him, Turji has been operating underground. We are conducting targeted operations to ensure his capture,” the CDS stated. “We have been picking up everyone close to him—those offering him support in any capacity. We have arrested many, and his commanders have been eliminated. It’s only a matter of time.”
The military chief also vowed that Turji, who has long evaded capture while continuing to wreak havoc, will soon be brought to justice. Turji has previously taunted the Nigerian military, claiming that they are aware of his whereabouts but lack the resolve to arrest him.
Despite such provocations, General Musa assured Nigerians that the military is resolute in its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and restoring peace to affected regions.
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The defence chief’s revelations highlight the military’s evolving strategies in the fight against insurgency and banditry. As the identification and separation process continues, the Nigerian military remains focused on eliminating terrorist masterminds and rehabilitating coerced individuals, signaling progress in its mission to secure the nation.
