By SUNTV Global Channel | January 13, 2026
Panic and mass displacement have hit several communities in eastern Sokoto State following fresh attacks by notorious bandits’ leader, Bello Turji, who is reportedly advancing plans to seize control of strategic rural settlements in the area.
Residents of Tidibale village in Isa Local Government Area (LGA) were forced to flee their homes on Monday night after heavily armed fighters loyal to Turji invaded the community in large numbers.
Sources told SUNTV Global Channel that the attackers stormed the village late at night, triggering chaos and fear as families abandoned their homes and escaped to neighbouring communities in search of safety.
A video obtained by SaharaReporters showed terrified villagers fleeing under the cover of darkness, carrying children and personal belongings as gunmen tightened their grip on the area.
A security alert issued by Bakatsine, a community-based security intelligence platform, confirmed the attack and warned that it forms part of a wider campaign by Bello Turji to dominate large portions of Sokoto’s eastern axis.
According to the alert, Bargaja village, also in Isa LGA, was attacked days earlier, suggesting a coordinated and systematic push by the bandit group to expand territorial control across rural communities.
Despite repeated assurances by government and security agencies, communities across Sokoto State continue to face relentless attacks, abductions and forced displacement, with residents bearing the brunt of ongoing insecurity.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Sokoto State Government nor security agencies have issued an official statement on the latest wave of attacks.
With villagers fleeing openly along major roads and bandits reportedly consolidating control over deserted settlements, serious questions are being raised about the response of security forces.
Concerned residents and observers warn that entire communities are being turned into refugees within their own country, as armed groups advance unchecked and civilians are left to fend for themselves.
— SUNTV Global Channel
