Turji Threats Prompt Northern Governors to Form Cross-Border Security Network
Byline: IDNN National Security Desk
Faced with renewed bandit threats and growing displacement in Sokoto, the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has activated a cross-border surveillance initiative aimed at tackling rising insecurity with regional coordination and precision.
Meeting with traditional rulers on Saturday in Kaduna, the governors resolved to form inter-state surveillance platforms along their joint borders to detect, disrupt, and respond to threats — especially from notorious warlord Bello Turji.
“This is a security emergency that requires collective intelligence and joint deployment,” said Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe, NSGF Chairman.
Mass Exodus in Sokoto: Turji Issues Ultimatum
The move comes after Bello Turji reportedly issued eviction threats to multiple villages in Isa Local Government Area (LGA), forcing residents to flee from towns like Bafarawa, Kamara, Arume, and Kagara.
Local sources say panic spread after Turji’s militia gave communities a 4 PM ultimatum to evacuate—with some families abandoning decades-old farmlands overnight.
“This isn’t just banditry. It’s calculated siege warfare,” one fleeing resident told IDNN.
Police Confirm Deployment—But Fear Still Grips Region
Sokoto State Police confirmed officers have been deployed in the affected areas but acknowledged no formal report had yet been filed.
“We’ve had boots on the ground for three days,” said ASP Ahmed Rufai, Police PRO. “Our men are ready.”
Still, community leaders claim there’s a “gap between presence and deterrence,” calling for a federal-level escalation to dismantle the terror networks.
Strategic Outcome: Toward State Policing?
The NSGF communiqué praised President Tinubu’s federal support but urged the National Assembly to fast-track a legal framework for state police creation.
Governors also agreed to work with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) to boost federal agency capacity and strengthen local intelligence pipelines.
“This isn’t about rhetoric. It’s about coordination. About being faster, smarter, and unified,” said a top source close to the Kaduna State Government.
