Notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji has stated that his group is open to negotiations with the government but remains prepared for armed confrontation.

It was reports that Turji stated this in a video recorded in Hausa and dated June 20, 2026.

He claimed responsibility for recent attacks on security operatives in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara states.

The bandit leader also used the video to address the issue of possible peace talks with authorities, indicating a willingness to negotiate if the government chooses dialogue over military action.

According to him, “If the government is ready for negotiation, we are also ready for negotiation. But if they want to continue with force, we are prepared. Our fighters are ready for whatever comes.”

He further suggested that his group would not back down from armed resistance, saying, “We are ready for peace, but if they choose war, we are also ready. We will defend ourselves.”

The video surfaced days after a deadly attack along the Isa–Bargaja axis in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, where suspected terrorists loyal to Turji reportedly laid an ambush on security personnel responding to a distress call.

Local and security sources alleged that an Improvised Explosive Device detonated during the operation, killing at least four soldiers, although military authorities have yet to officially confirm the casualty figure.

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The Oorelope Local Government has dismissed claims that a woman, Kuburat Omowumi and her son, who were kidnapped on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Igbope, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State, were released after the intervention of Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Igboho.

It was reports the claims followed a video circulating on social media on Saturday showing large crowds of residents singing and dancing Igboho.

The jubilation was described as a celebration of the release of the victims: a woman, her children, and a sibling.

They were said to be released following Igboho’s issuance of a two-hour ultimatum to suspected kidnappers and Fulani community leaders, demanding their release.

However, in a statement on Sunday, the Oorelope Local Government Chairman, Jacob Ogundiran, described the claims as false and misleading.

He said, “The attention of the Oorelope Local Government Area leadership has been drawn to circulating rumours and unverified reports claiming the release of the kidnapping victims.

“We state authoritatively that these reports are false and misleading. The victims are still in captivity, and we urge the public to discountenance any information to the contrary unless it comes from credible sources.”

Ogundiran assured that security agencies at the state and local levels were intensifying efforts to secure the victims’ safe rescue, while commending community leaders, residents, and stakeholders for providing intelligence and support.

He emphasised that the protection of lives and property remained a top priority.

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Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have rescued five abductees, including three children, who were allegedly held captive since a terrorist attack on Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

According to security sources, the rescue operation took place on 19 June 2026 at about 1140hrs during a perimeter clearance patrol conducted by troops of the 82 Division Task Force Battalion in the Bakasi general area.

The sources stated that troops on patrol sighted five persons wandering in a bush area near Ngoshe and suspected that they had escaped from Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.

The rescued victims were identified as Fatima Adamu, 80; Maryam Yakubu, 55; Abubakar Ibrahim, 12; Musa Ibrahim, 11; and Fadima Adamu, 8.

Following the discovery, troops conducted further clearance operations within a radius of about 500 metres to ensure the area was secure before returning to base.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the victims are residents of Ngoshe community and were abducted during a terrorist attack on the area on 3 March 2026.

The rescued persons were administered first aid by military personnel and subsequently handed over to the community head, Mallam Bulama Kunda, for reunification with their families.

The military noted that the general security situation across the North-East theatre remains calm but unpredictable, adding that troops remain vigilant and operationally effective in ongoing counter-terrorism operations.