Bello Turji imposes N50m ‘farming fee’ on Zamfara, Niger communities

Some farming communities in Zamfara and Niger States are once again facing hardship as reports emerge that notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, has demanded a staggering ₦50 million from residents before allowing them to begin this year’s farming season.

The alarming development was disclosed by security analyst Bakatsine via a post on X (formerly Twitter), revealing that the bandit issued the demand as a condition for peace in the region.

“Bandit leader Bello Turji is reportedly demanding 50 million from residents of Tsalaken Gulbi from Fakai village, Shinkafi LGA, Zamfara State, up to Qaya near the Niger border, just to let them farm this season.” Bakatsine wrote.

Turji, has long been associated with violent attacks, kidnappings, and illegal taxation of rural communities.

His control reportedly spreads to parts of Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina States.