In his first visit to Zamfara State since taking command, Army Chief Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has sent a clear message to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji: your days are numbered.
Speaking to journalists at Operation Fansan Yamma headquarters in Gusau, Oluyede revealed that the wanted kingpin is currently on the run, with troops hot on his heels.
“Let him keep running,” Oluyede declared confidently, “it is just a matter of time, he would be removed from the space.”
The Army Chief wasn’t just making empty promises. He pointed to recent victories against other prominent bandits in the region, confirming the elimination of several high-profile targets.
“In the last few months, we have killed prominent bandit leaders like Samaila, Boga, and the likes of Boderi,” he stated, underlining the military’s growing success in dismantling these criminal networks.
While acknowledging the complex security challenges facing the North-West, Oluyede expressed unwavering confidence in his troops’ ability to restore peace to the troubled region.
“We are pursuing them and we intend to continue with that,” he assured, emphasizing their commitment to making “the entire North-West very safe.”
During his visit, the Army Chief, who was appointed on October 30, 2024, received an operational briefing from Theatre Commander Major General Oluyinka Soyele and inspected the quarter guard under heightened security measures.
