Turji Bello: ‘Dialogue With Someone Who Has Killed, Kidnapped Is Not The Solution’ – Islamic Cleric

Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Murtala Asada, has faulted suggestions for peace talks with bandit leader, Bello Turji, warning that such moves would endanger communities in the North West.

According to Daily Post, Asada, on Wednesday, dismissed recent comments by Professor Abubakar Usman Ribah, who had urged the Federal Government to initiate dialogue with Turji as part of efforts to address insecurity in the region.

According to the cleric, negotiations with the notorious bandit kingpin will only embolden criminals.

“Dialogue with Turji is not the solution. People should not waste time hoping for peace talks with someone who has killed, kidnapped, and destroyed lives. What our people need to do is protect themselves, defend their families, and stand against these criminals,” Asada said.

The cleric also reacted to a viral audio clip allegedly featuring him in conversation with Turji. He explained that the recording was about five years old and no longer reflected his current position.

Naija News understands that earlier peace agreements initiated in Zamfara and Katsina States, where governments offered dialogue and even amnesty to bandits, eventually collapsed after the armed groups reneged and resumed violent attacks on rural communities.

Asada, therefore, maintained that residents must prioritise vigilance and self-defence over expectations of government-brokered peace with individuals like Turji.

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