Terr0rist kingpin Turji is in panic state — Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has disclosed that notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji is in a state of panic due to the ongoing military operations targeting terrorists in the North West. Musa made this revelation during an interview on Thursday, October 3, in Abuja. According to the CDS, the recent elimination of key terrorist figures, including Halilu Buzu, has caused significant distress in Turji’s camp. Musa emphasized that the terrorist kingpin's latest actions indicate fear and uncertainty. “You can see from the action that he is taking, you will know that he is in a state of panic,” General Musa said. “He used to be emboldened to go and talk and talk as if he is the only one in charge. Now he knows he is not in charge. He knows it is a matter of time because Halilu Buzu that was killed was his master." The CDS added that Turji is aware that he is next, stating, “So now that he knows his commander is gone, he knows he is next and so all that he is doing now is mere noise-making.” Musa further assured that military operations would continue with the aim of dismantling terrorist networks, adding that many of the remaining militants would eventually be neutralized. He also touched on the factors contributing to prolonged insecurity in the region, including poverty, illiteracy, and poor governance. “So they have a large population of youths not doing anything. The more we take them out, more are joining them," the CDS explained. General Musa also highlighted the challenges posed by Nigeria’s borders, which terrorist elements use to infiltrate and evade capture. “We have 1,500 kilometers border with Niger Republic. We have another border with Benin Republic and so a lot of people filter in and out within Nigeria. So efforts are being made to ensure that we secure those borders to deny them the ability to move in,” he said.

by Linda Ikeji at 04/10/2024 7:30 AM