A non-partisan group, the North-West Women Development Forum (NWDF), has called on notorious bandit leader Bello Turji to lay down his arms and embrace peace, supporting the Nigerian military’s approach to resolving the ongoing conflict in the North-West.

The group made the appeal on Friday in Abuja, following the killing of Kallamu Buzu, one of Turji’s top aides, by Nigerian troops. Buzu was killed during a military operation in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, as part of the 8 Division and Sector 2 Joint Task Force under Operation Hadarin Daji.

In a statement, the NWDF expressed its gratitude to the Nigerian Armed Forces for the successful operation, which led to Buzu’s death and the neutralization of several other fighters. The group also emphasized the need for peace and security in the North-West, as well as the entire country.

Turji, reportedly shaken by Buzu’s death, has vowed revenge and blamed another lieutenant for the mistakes that led to Buzu’s death during a failed attack on local traders. The women’s group responded by urging him to stop the cycle of violence.

Salamatu Bello, the Public Relations Officer of NWDF, said the people of the region are pleased with the military’s handling of banditry, praising the Armed Forces for their speed, professionalism, and bravery. Bello urged Turji to consider the military’s message of non-violence, appealing to him to surrender before further bloodshed ensues.

“We cannot continue like this. As mothers, we are happy with the quiet but firm way the military is handling these criminals. We appeal to Bello Turji to surrender before it is too late,” Bello said.

The group also held prayers for peace in the region and for the souls of soldiers who have lost their lives in the battle to protect Nigeria. They prayed for the success of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and for divine intervention to restore peace to the North-West.

Meanwhile, the Sokoto State Government has also commended the Nigerian military for its successful operation. The state governor’s security aide, Ahmed Usman, praised the soldiers for their swift action, which helped prevent a potential tragedy. He urged security forces to maintain their pressure on criminal elements in Sokoto and throughout the North-West.