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Stakeholders from the troubled Eastern Senatorial District of Sokoto State have called on the government and security agencies to urgently come to the aid of Tidibale and other communities displaced by the activities of notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji.
The Secretary of the Sokoto Eastern Zone Development Association, Muazu Shamaki, confirmed that a recent video circulating on social media showing residents of Tidibale vacating their communities followed alleged threats issued by Turji. He said the development had subjected residents to untold hardship.
According to Shamaki, more than 20 settlements have been affected by the spate of threats and forced displacement.
Read Also: Nigeria Will Defeat Banditry In 2026 – Akpabio Boasts
Also speaking, Malam Bashar Guyawa-Isa said some of the affected residents had taken refuge in neighbouring communities in the Niger Republic.
He appealed for prompt government intervention to salvage the situation, noting that many communities had been completely deserted.
Residents across several parts of the state are reportedly gripped by fear over threats of attacks by Turji and his group, forcing many families to flee their homes in search of safety.
Unconfirmed videos circulating on social media show residents escaping in overloaded vehicles, underscoring the growing humanitarian concern in the area.
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has expressed confidence that Nigeria’s banditry and other security challenges will be overcome in 2026 and beyond, urging Nigerians to work collectively towards peace, unity, and national development.
Akpabio spoke during a prayer and fasting service organised in honour of the Akpabio family at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Cathedral of Unity, Ukana Ikot Ntuen, in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
He called on Nigerians to set aside differences, embrace peace, and foster unity within families, communities, and across the country, stressing that sustainable development can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace.
“I want to wish all Nigerians a very prosperous and peaceful new year. I want to assure Nigerians that the new year will usher in renewed peace in our country,” the Senate President said.
