News
Troops close in on bandit leader Turji, kill commanders, 24 militants
It appears that troops are steadily closing in on notorious terrorist kingpin Bello Turji, following a series of recent bombardments on his hideouts by the Nigerian military.
In the last few weeks, the military has intensified operations targeted at Turji’s known hideouts, which has been largely successful.
Turji is a notorious terrorist leader operating in North-western Nigeria, particularly Zamfara, Sokoto and Niger states.
He had vowed to unleash terror on residents of Zamafara communities in 2025 over the arrest of his associate Bako Wurgi.
On Wednesday, the Defence Headquarters announced that the second-in-command to terrorist kingpin, Bello Turji, Aminu Kanawa, has been killed by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma.
The DHQ also stated that troops inflicted serious injuries on some of Turji’s close allies, including his younger brother.
This development comes after the DHQ revealed on Monday that troops killed Turji’s fighters and son during clearance operations on his hideout.
The military also taunted the terrorist leader for abandoning his son and fighters during the gun duel.
The DHQ had previously vowed to capture or kill Turji in 2025, following his repeated mockery of the military and challenge to engage them in combat after being declared wanted and the arrest of his associate, Bako Wurgi, in December 2024.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the DHQ reaffirmed its commitment to capturing Turji despite the recent surrender of two terrorist leaders in the North-West region.
Giving an update on the operation in the North West on Wednesday, the outgoing Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Edward Buba, also stated that over seven key commanders of Turji, along with more than 24 of Turji’s fighters fleeing his hideout, were killed when troops stormed his hideout.
Buba said, “Sequel to ongoing military onslaught on terrorist in the NW of the country, between the 20-21 Jan 2025, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA neutralised the second-in-command of notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji’s namely, Aminu Kanawa. Troops also inflicted terminal injuries on some of Bello Turji’s close allies namely: Dosso (Bello Turji’s younger brother) and Danbokolo (one of Turji’s closest allies).
“Additionally, troops neutralised several of Bello Turji’s key commanders namely: Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe, among others. Furthermore, troops neutralised over 24 fleeing terrorist from Bello Turji’s Camp around Gebe and Isa LGA of Sokoto State, as well as around Gidan Rijiya in Shinkafi LGA of Zamfara State.”
Buba also said troops killed another notable terrorist during the onslaught on Turji’s hideout.
He said, “Troops also neutralised another notable terrorist during the onslaught on Bello Turji’s enclave around Fakai high ground. He is identified as Suleiman, and a loyalist of late notorious terrorist leader, Halilu Sububu.
“The late Suleiman was leading a reinforcement team to rescue Bello Turji’s Camp which was in disarray, when he was eliminated during the fire fight.
“The death of Bello Turji’s second in command, close allies, commanders and combatants is a significant blow to the terrorist network in the NW of the country, as well as their military and fighting capabilities. These groups of terrorists were notorious for numerous kidnappings and terrorist attacks across the NW, particularly in Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas in Zamfara and Sokoto States.
“Overall, troops are not relenting until these terrorists are completely destroyed. Troops operations are aimed at creating an atmosphere of safety and security for all citizens.”
The onslaught on Turji and his group has brought delights to some residents of
Sokoto State has commended the Nigerian security agents, especially the Military for their efforts in dealing with bandits Kingpin and his gangs.
Speaking on the development, Abubakar Isa, a resident of Isa, in Isa local government area of the state, said the news of the killing is a welcome development to the people of the area.
He called on the military not to rest on their oars until their leader, Bello Turji, is captured dead or alive.
Also speaking, Muhammad Abdullah, from Goronyo, said news of the killing came to the people of Goronyo as good news.
He said the people of the area especially those in the rural areas have been suffering from the antics of the bandits for a long time which he said has collapsed the economic activities of the local government.
Mallam Nuhu Bello, a commercial motorcycle operator in the state, said the killing is a welcome development for the people of Sokoto and Zamfara States.
Bello, who hailed from Shinkafi local government area of Zamfara, said the atrocities of Turji and his gang was the reason why he left his community where he used to farm for motorcycle riding in Sokoto.
“I ran from my community because of those bandits. I used to be a farmer but had to run for safety when we couldn’t access our farms unless we pay them tax.
“The killing will definitely make the people in Shinkafi feel good and happy, “ he added.
Mallam Altini Bashar, a security commentator while speaking with one of our correspondents, commended the military efforts in the victory being recorded.
He said the military actions resulted in killing of many members of the bandits group.
He however said the real identity of those killed can only be ascertained when the operation comes to an end.
“Yes, I heard of the exercise and the killings, but I cannot confirm those who have been killed in the exercise.
“ I believe after the end of the exercise, we will know the real identity of those who lost their lives in the fight”
Meanwhile, the Sokoto State Government warned residents to remain vigilant as military operations against bandit terrorists intensify in the eastern part of the state.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security Matters, retired Colonel Ahmed Usman, the government highlighted the success of the ongoing joint military operations, which he said had left the bandits disorganised.
The statement added that multiple terrorist enclaves had been destroyed, dozens of bandits neutralized and hundreds of kidnapped victims rescued.
The statement urged residents to be cautious and report any suspicious activities in their communities.
“As security forces increase pressure on the bandits, some of them are fleeing to other areas with injured members. We are raising awareness to ensure our people remain alert, as these bandits may attempt to hide in villages or seek medical treatment at local clinics under disguise,” the statement read.
The government reiterated its commitment to working with security agencies to restore peace and stability in the state, adding that residents were encouraged to play an active role by reporting unusual activities to the authorities to support the ongoing efforts to secure the region.
“This proactive measure aligns with the governor’s nine-point agenda to create a safer and more economically viable Sokoto State.
“The government remains determined to work collaboratively with security operatives to protect citizens and maintain peace in the state,” the statement stated.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after spending about four weeks in Europe, declaring that he is hale, healthy and ready to resume work.
Tinubu made the remarks on Tuesday evening after arriving in Lagos from Paris, where he had spent the latter part of his working vacation.
Responding to journalists who asked about concerns raised about his health condition, the President said he remained fit and prepared to continue his duties.
“Rumours will always emanate from politics. I am hale and strong. I am ready to work. The fact remains that I am here, healthy, sound and ready to go,” Tinubu said.
The President had departed Nigeria on August 30 for London before travelling to Paris, with the Presidency describing the trip as a working vacation.
He later extended his stay by a few days before returning to Nigeria on Tuesday.
His prolonged absence from the country had generated public and political debate, with opposition figures questioning the length of his stay abroad and his decision not to personally attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The Presidency, however, maintained that Tinubu remained in touch with officials in Nigeria and continued to direct government affairs while abroad.
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented him at several official engagements, including the UN General Assembly.
During his time in France, Tinubu met French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré.
The Presidency also linked his stay to engagements with investors and discussions around major investment projects, including the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port in Ogun State.
The President is expected to remain in Lagos for the 66th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
He is scheduled to attend official engagements in the state, including activities marking Nigeria’s independence on October 1, before returning to Abuja.
The Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Johannesburg has condemned the deaths of three Nigerian nationals killed in different parts of South Africa in less than one week, between September 18 and 21, 2026.
In a statement issued today, the Consulate said the killings raise fresh concerns over the safety of Nigerians and other foreigners in South Africa and point to what seems to be a pattern of targeting Nigerians.
According to the Consulate, on September 18, 2026, one Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemadu allegedly jumped to his death while trying to escape police harassment and brutality at Kenlin Court on Douglas Street, Central Business District (CBD), Bloemfontein.
On September 20, 2026, another Nigerian, Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde, was shot dead at Spanata Bar and Grill Night Club in Mamelodi East, Pretoria, by an unidentified South African.
The deceased, who worked as a security guard at the club located in Summer Event Centre, was said to have attempted to stop a customer from leaving the club with a cup belonging to the club.
The encounter degenerated into an altercation, and the customer pulled out his firearm and shot Olatunde in the lower body, leading to serious injury and profuse loss of blood.
“The shooter immediately fled the scene. However, on realising that his identity was known by many at the Club, he later returned to the Club and threatened to also kill any witnesses who dare to report the case and identify him to the Police,” the statement said.
Olatunde was rushed to Mamelodi Hospital, where he was confirmed dead on the morning of September 21, 2026.
The third incident occurred on September 21, 2026, in Primrose, Ekurhuleni, where South African politician-cum-investigative content creator, Xolani Khumalo, and his content creation team, Sizok’thola, allegedly tortured and killed Christian Hillary Nnaemeka.
The Consulate said that, despite not finding anything incriminating on the deceased, the crew beat and tortured him before he attempted to escape by jumping over a fence, after which he collapsed from injuries and exhaustion and was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.
The Consulate recalled that on February 9, 2026, another Nigerian, Emeka Clement Uzor, was also shot dead by the same Khumalo’s reality TV crew in Windsor East, Randburg, yet no arrests have been made and Khumalo is currently running for election to become Mayor of Ekurhuleni.
“Reports of these continuous incidents are deeply troubling and continue to raise numerous questions over the safety of Nigerians and other foreigners in South Africa,” the Consulate said, calling on relevant South African authorities to investigate the deaths thoroughly and bring perpetrators to justice.
“Our position remains that Nigerian and all lives matter. In cases where allegations may exist, no matter what they are, there are processes and steps to justice. All should be presumed innocent,” it added.
News
Ojukwu Property Dispute: OTL petitions IGP over demolition, construction at Macpherson Avenue Property
By Tony Edike
The long-running property dispute involving Bianca Ojukwu and Ojukwu Transport Limited (OTL) has taken a fresh turn following the demolition of a property at 4 Macpherson Avenue, Ikoyi, Lagos, and what the company describes as ongoing unauthorised construction on the site.
In a petition dated August 20, 2026 and addressed to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), OTL called for the immediate cessation of activities at the property and its return to the company pending the resolution of outstanding court proceedings.
The company said the property was taken over on May 1, 2025, when officers from Zone 2, Lagos, accompanied by lawyers representing Bianca Ojukwu, identified in the petition as Omeye and Duru, took over the premises.
Ongoing construction at the site
OTL alleged that the police action was based on what it described as “false claims” made by Bianca Ojukwu and her lawyers.
According to the company, the property had previously been the subject of litigation and enforcement proceedings. OTL said it had, pursuant to a 2018 judgment by Justice Adedayo Oyebanji, obtained and executed a warrant on the properties in 2022.
The company further stated that it subsequently commenced an appeal process against the 2022 judgment of Justice A.M. Lawal and served the relevant stay processes.
OTL said that despite the unresolved legal proceedings, the property at Macpherson Avenue was demolished and construction subsequently commenced on the site.
OTL’s fresh petition to IGP
In the August 2026 petition, Ojukwu Transport Limited, said it had previously petitioned the IGP on August 22, 2025, with a reminder in January 2026, seeking the return of the property.
The company said that its earlier complaints had not been responded to, while activities at the property had continued.
A new structure under construction at the site
“OTL, the owner of the property, discovered that the same property taken over by police with no response to our previous petitions/demands had been demolished and construction now ongoing,” the company stated in the petition.
It consequently asked the IGP to urgently intervene by stopping all activities on the property and removing persons allegedly occupying or working on the premises.
The company also requested that the property be returned to it while the outstanding court issues are allowed to run their course.
“Criminality and abuse of power should not be condoned,” the petition stated.
Earlier police petitions
OTL said its initial petition in August 2025 was prepared by Chief O. Ugolo, SAN, on the instructions of Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu Jnr, whom the company identified as head of the Ikemba branch of the family as well as a shareholder and director of OTL.
The company maintained that Bianca Ojukwu and her sons, Afamefuna and Nwachukwu, are not shareholders or directors of OTL.
A separate petition was also reportedly submitted to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2, in September 2026, specifically concerning the alleged demolition and ongoing construction at the Macpherson Avenue property.
OTL alleged that the ongoing development was taking place with the knowledge and protection of police personnel.
However, these allegations have not been independently established in the materials made available to The Advocate.
Contempt proceedings
OTL said Bianca Ojukwu and her sons had earlier, in 2024, applied for Form 49 contempt proceedings before Justice Lawal.
The company also alleged that proceedings had suffered delays because the case file earlier requested by Bianca’s lawyers was unavailable or had not been returned to court on two consecutive occasions.
Other properties involved
According to OTL, the matter before Justice Lawal includes, in addition to 4 Macpherson Avenue :
* 30 Gerrard Road, Ikoyi
* 29 Oyinkan Abayomi, Ikoyi
* 13 Ojora, Ikoyi
* 32 Commercial Avenue, Yaba
OTL maintains that it is the owner of the properties.
OTL demands return of property
OTL described the alleged demolition and construction as a “blatant and provocative disregard for the rule of law” and accused a serving federal government minister and her lawyers of abuse of office and power.
Those allegations are OTL’s position and have not been independently established.
The company is demanding that the alleged construction be stopped, all persons allegedly occupying the property be removed and the property returned to OTL pending the conclusion of the court proceedings.
The latest development is another chapter to the long-running legal dispute with Ojukwu Transport Limited.
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