Community in Sokoto Faces Mass Exodus After Alleged Threat by Notorious Terrorist Bello Turji

Residents of a community in Sokoto State are reportedly preparing to abandon their homes following a warning allegedly issued by notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji, raising fresh fears over the worsening security situation in northern Nigeria.

According to reports circulating online, the threat has thrown the community into panic, with families considering relocation to avoid possible attacks. Locals say the warning has reinforced long-standing fears, as many rural communities continue to feel exposed and unprotected amid persistent banditry and insurgent violence in the region.

The situation has further fueled public outrage after videos surfaced on social media allegedly showing armed bandits moving freely in vehicles through military checkpoints, while soldiers reportedly looked on without making arrests. Though the authenticity and context of the videos have not been officially confirmed, they have intensified concerns among Nigerians about compromised security operations and alleged collusion or operational lapses within the system.

Many Nigerians reacting online described the development as a sign of how deeply insecurity has taken root across the country, arguing that communities are increasingly left to fend for themselves. Critics say repeated incidents of threats, kidnappings, and unchecked movement of armed groups have eroded public confidence in the state’s ability to guarantee safety.

Some commentators also linked the situation to politics, expressing cynicism that insecurity would once again become a major campaign issue ahead of the 2027 general elections. They warned that despite being the most affected, vulnerable communities may still be targeted with vote-buying inducements during elections, a practice widely condemned by civil society groups.

As of the time of reporting, security agencies and the Sokoto State Government have yet to issue an official statement addressing the alleged threat or the reported videos. Meanwhile, residents say their immediate concern remains survival, as fear of violence continues to drive displacement and uncertainty across affected areas.