The Nigerian military has advised villagers in Sokoto State to ignore the N25 million levy imposed by the notorious bandit leader, Turji Bello. The military assured them of full protection and warned against giving in to his demands.

Speaking on Monday during an interview on Channels Television, Major General Emeka Onumajuru, Chief of Defence Operations, stated that the military was actively tracking Turji and that his capture or elimination was only a matter of time.

Turji has been on the run since January after fleeing from Zamfara State during a military operation against him. Reports say he abandoned his son and fighters while escaping.

Recently, he resurfaced in Sokoto’s Isa Local Government Area, where he set up a new camp and started demanding money from villagers.

General Onumajuru dismissed Turji’s threats and urged residents to stay strong. He assured them that soldiers were on the ground to protect them and that they should not pay any extortion money.

“The people must trust that the Armed Forces are here to defend them. If anyone demands protection money, call their bluff because our troops are there to safeguard you,” he said.

He also warned villagers against giving in to any kind of ransom, emphasizing that soldiers are already securing farms and making sure people can go about their daily lives safely.

The military continues to track Turji closely, and Onumajuru reassured Nigerians that, though it may take time, his activities in the North-West will soon come to an end.