By Palang Paul
A new wave of displacement is underway in eastern Sokoto State Northeastern Nigeria as communities, particularly Tidibale in Isa Local Government Area, empty out following renewed threats from notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji.
The threat has shattered months of relative calm after the Airstrike by the United States on Christmas day, triggering panic and forcing families to abandon homes and farmlands. Many have fled to Isa, Gidan Hamisu, and Shinkafi in Zamfara State, seeking refuge.
Locals accounts indicate Turji is reasserting his influence, warning of “dire consequences” for communities that have not aligned with him. The warning exacerbates an already fragile security situation in Sokoto East.
A viral video depicts the exodus, with vehicles carting away people and belongings. Women, children, and the elderly are among the displaced, with farmers missing critical planting season preparations.
In contrast, several communities in Zamfara’s Shinkafi LGA are reported to have entered a non-aggression truce with Turji. Public commentator Altine Guyawa notes the bandit’s activities are now concentrated in areas without such agreements: Isa, Sabon Birni, Goronyo, Wurno, and Rabah.
Attack in Benue Claims Five Lives
In a separate incident, suspected armed herders killed at least five people, including former councillor and 2019 PDP House of Assembly candidate Igbabe Ochi, in a midnight attack on Otobi Akpa community, Otukpo LGA, Benue State.
The attack occurred around 1:30 am yesterday, with four victims killed at a provision shop before the assailants fled. A Benue State Civil Protection Guards report confirmed the deaths of Ochi, Achibi Onah, Eje Eba, and Sunday Iruja. Community leaders said the attackers entered from the Ijami axis.
US Delivers Military Supplies to Support Nigerian Operations
Amid these incidents, the United States government has delivered critical military supplies to Nigerian authorities in Abuja to support ongoing security operations.
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) announced the delivery, stating it underscores the continued U.S. commitment to strengthening its security partnership with Nigeria.
Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani hailed the U.S. assistance as “timely and commendable.”
“Other countries that claim to like or love us should emulate this gesture. Anything that can be done to eliminate Bello Turji, Adamu Aleru, Baleri and other terrorist criminals in the hinterland of Zamfara is welcomed,” he stated.
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