A prominent security analyst, Dr. Yahuza Getso, has strongly criticised the Federal Government over what he described as a lack of genuine commitment to arresting infamous Zamfara-based bandit kingpin, Bello Turji.
Speaking during an interview on television, Dr. Getso dismissed repeated official claims about efforts to capture Turji as “mere political statements,” arguing that such pronouncements lack substance and measurable results. “I don’t believe that Nigeria is genuinely interested in any way to arrest Bello Turji,” he said, expressing deep skepticism over the government’s resolve.
The security expert questioned the credibility of government assurances, pointing out that authorities have at various times claimed Turji is not in hiding. He argued that if this were true, his continued freedom raises serious concerns about either intelligence gaps or a lack of political will.
Drawing a sharp comparison, Getso highlighted what he described as a troubling double standard in law enforcement. According to him, individuals who criticise the government on social media are often tracked and arrested within hours, while a high-profile bandit leader like Turji continues to evade capture. “If the government can trace and detain critics so swiftly, why has the same urgency not been applied to apprehending someone like Turji?” he queried.
Getso further criticised the Federal Government’s long-running security strategy, noting that trillions of naira have been spent over the past decade in the fight against insurgency and banditry, with little success in dismantling the leadership structure of these criminal networks.
He emphasised that meaningful progress cannot be achieved without targeting not only frontline fighters but also the key figures orchestrating attacks and financing operations. “What we are seeing is a failure to go after the real architects of insecurity. Until these individuals and their sponsors are decisively dealt with, the cycle of violence will persist”, he warned.
The remarks come at a time of heightened public anxiety over worsening insecurity across parts of the country. Recent attacks, including a deadly incident in Jos that reportedly claimed over 30 lives, have intensified calls for stronger and more effective government action.
Dr. Getso’s comments echo a growing wave of frustration among Nigerians, many of whom are increasingly questioning the effectiveness of current security measures and the apparent inability to bring notorious figures like Bello Turji to justice.
He concluded by urging the government to move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate real commitment through decisive, transparent, and sustained action against bandit leaders and their networks.
