ABUJA, Nigeria (CHATNEWSTV) — Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, has disclosed that notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji has expressed willingness to surrender due to sustained military pressure. However, the military has firmly rejected the offer, vowing to eliminate the fugitive instead.
“We want to take everybody out. Anybody who has killed should go. People like him should not be allowed to stay,” Musa said during an interview with Channels TV on Friday.
The army chief revealed that intensified operations have weakened Turji’s network, with key lieutenants, including his second-in-command, Aminu Kanawa, eliminated in recent strikes. Turji, now reportedly isolated, has released many of his subordinates and signaled his desire to lay down arms.
No Amnesty for Killers
Despite Turji’s apparent surrender attempt, Gen. Musa emphasized that the military would not offer clemency to individuals responsible for the deaths of innocent citizens.
“He is beginning to say he doesn’t want anything; he is ready to surrender,” Musa noted. “But anybody who has engaged in killing innocent citizens must not be spared.”
Challenges of Tracking Terrorists
Musa acknowledged the challenges faced by the military in capturing high-profile targets like Turji. The fugitive’s ability to blend into local communities and swiftly relocate complicates efforts to apprehend him.
“They [terrorists] are within the communities; the people know them. By the time you get the information and move, they’ve already left the area,” Musa explained.
Military Gains Against Terrorism
The armed forces have reported significant successes in dismantling Turji’s operations, reducing his influence in affected areas. The push to eliminate Turji aligns with the military’s broader campaign against insurgency and terrorism in Nigeria.
