The Military High Command has confirmed the killing of the son of Bello Turji, a notorious terrorist leader in a recent clearance operation on his stronghold on Fakai high ground in Zamfara.

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, on Monday in Abuja.

Buba said the terrorist leader’s son was killed alongside scores of other terrorists during a coordinated operation between troops of Operation Fansan Yamma and the air component.

Buba added that the operation was conducted on Jan. 17, along Shinkafi, Kagara, Fakai, Moriki, Maiwa and Chindo axis.

According to him, the intensity of troops’ fire power resulted in high terrorist casualties and their logistics hub destroyed.

“The operations also resulted in the rescue of several kidnapped hostages held captive by Bello Turji.

“The terrorist leader, Bello Turji, in a gross cowardly act escaped abandoning his son and combatants,” he said.

Buba said the military also destroyed another terrorist kingpin camp known as Idi Mallam along Zango Kagara Forest, killing three terrorists and apprehend three suspected collaborators.

He noted that troops recovered two machine guns, one AK47 Rifle with a magazine containing 11 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition.

“Other things the troops recovered were 61 rustled cattle and 44 sheep among other sundry items.

“Troops are sustaining the onslaught against the terrorist.

“Overall, the troops continued to demonstrate commitment to the safety and protection of all citizens across the country,” he said.

The Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, Hon. Melvin James Ejeh, has dismissed allegations suggesting a purported agreement for herders to occupy Agatu communities, describing the claims as false and malicious.

In a reaction to concerns raised by some citizens, Hon. Ejeh clarified that no such agreement exists. Instead, he emphasized his administration’s commitment to peace-building initiatives that prioritize the safety and welfare of Agatu residents.

“Our administration is focused on ensuring sustainable peace through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), a measure we adopted after realizing the futility of prolonged armed conflict,” Ejeh told our correspondent in a telephone conversation.

He revealed that upon his assumption of office in October 2024, fourteen Agatu communities were under siege, with displaced residents struggling to rebuild their lives. To address the crisis, his government facilitated critical stakeholder engagements, including Agatu leaders, Fulani representatives, and security officials, leading to a unanimous decision for herders occupying Agatu territories to vacate immediately.

“Herders have agreed to leave Agatu lands to allow displaced persons to return home, heal, and rebuild their lives. This decision underscores the commitment of all parties to peace and reconciliation,” he added.

Ejeh highlighted the significant progress achieved during meetings held in Loko, Nasarawa State, and Obagaji, Agatu LGA, where over 2,000 delegates from Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Taraba States participated. The outcomes included the establishment of a 28-member peace committee with equal representation of herders and farmers to develop actionable strategies for coexistence.

“The Benue State Chairman of Miyetti Allah, Ardo Mohammed Risku, publicly tendered an unreserved apology for past atrocities committed by herders and appealed for forgiveness,” the council boss disclosed.

In a bold move to ensure accountability, both Agatu and Fulani leaders agreed to expose criminal elements within their communities. “For now, herders will remain outside Agatu until actionable resolutions are implemented by the joint committee,” Ejeh affirmed.

Describing the devastating toll of the conflict, he recounted years of displacement, loss of lives, and economic hardship faced by Agatu residents. “War has failed us for over a decade. This administration is determined to use ADR as a lasting solution to restore peace and prosperity to Agatu,” he concluded.

With these efforts, the Agatu chairman has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering resolve to secure a peaceful and thriving community for its people.

Troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3 of the “Operation Whirl Stroke” (OPWS) have thwarted a planned banditry attack in Taraba and arrested two suspects with AK 47 rifles.

According to a statement on Thursday by Capt. Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations in Jalingo, said the success was as a result of a coordinated operation based on credible intelligence.

“Upon receiving actionable intelligence, troops on 11 December 2024, swiftly launched a series of aggressive patrols, ambushes, and covert operations to prevent the attack.

“These efforts culminated in the apprehension of two suspected terrorists, identified as Terry Waapara and Tobaya Tekura, in Adu village.

“The suspects were intercepted while attempting to infiltrate the Chachanji market to carry out their nefarious mission, believed to include kidnapping and other criminal activities.

“During the operation, troops recovered 2 AK-47 rifles, 2 AK-47 magazines and 26 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

“The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation to uncover more details about their network and activities.”

The statement quoted the Commander 6 Brigade, Brig. Gen. Kingsley Uwa, commending the troops for their vigilance, professionalism, and swift response, which led to the success.

“I want to assure the good people of Taraba State that the Nigerian Army will remain resolute in its fight against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality.

“I appreciate the support and cooperation of law-abiding citizens in providing timely and credible information.

“Together we will make Taraba a safe environment for all,” Uwa said