Fresh fear has gripped Sokoto State after suspected bandits linked to notorious kingpin Bello Turji launched another deadly attack on Bargaja village in Isa Local Government Area, leaving at least two people dead and several others abducted.
The latest assault, which happened barely days after a previous raid in the same community, has triggered renewed displacement along the volatile Sokoto–Zamfara axis, with villagers fleeing in large numbers.
Police Confirm Killings, Kidnappings
Confirming the incident, the Sokoto State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Ahmed Rufai, said gunmen believed to be loyal to Bello Turji carried out the attack.
According to him, while two deaths have been confirmed, the exact number of abducted victims is still unclear.
“Two people were killed, but we are still awaiting a detailed field report from the Divisional Police Officer to ascertain the number of those kidnapped,” Rufai said.
He assured that more details would be released once the DPO submits a comprehensive situation report to the state command.
Village Under Repeated Attacks
Security sources and residents revealed that Bargaja village had been attacked days earlier, raising fears that the area has become a permanent target for armed groups operating in eastern Sokoto.
The repeated raids have forced residents to abandon their homes, farmlands, and livestock, with many escaping to Isa town and neighbouring communities.
“Entire Ward Has Been Devastated” — Residents Cry Out
Reports indicate a steady influx of displaced persons from Tidibale Ward into Isa town, as farming and pastoral settlements come under increasing threat.
A local source lamented:
“The whole of Tidibale Ward has been devastated by Bello Turji. People are now refugees in their own land.”
Residents are appealing urgently to federal, state, and local authorities for decisive military and humanitarian intervention before the situation spirals further out of control.
Silence From Government
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Sokoto State Government nor the Isa Local Government Council has issued an official statement addressing the latest attack.
Meanwhile, insecurity continues to tighten its grip on Isa, Sabon Birni, and surrounding areas, despite repeated assurances from security agencies.
Bottom Line
The attack on Bargaja is yet another grim reminder that banditry remains unchecked in parts of northern Nigeria, with civilians paying the highest price. As communities empty and fear spreads, residents are asking one urgent question:
👉 How many more villages must fall before decisive action is taken?
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