
The Commander of 1 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Opurum Timothy, has described the notorious bandit leader Bello Turji as a “coward,” stating that he is currently on the run due to the relentless military operations in Zamfara State.

Speaking after the Nigerian Army’s West African Social Activities (WASA) 2024 event held at the 1 Brigade Cantonment in Gusau, General Opurum reaffirmed the military’s commitment to eradicating banditry and restoring peace in Zamfara and the Northwest region.
“Turji is a coward and has abandoned his foot soldiers due to the pressure we’ve mounted on him. We have cleared many of them and will sustain the momentum by taking the fight directly to their strongholds,” General Opurum stated.
The Brigade Commander, known by his nickname “Jar Kunama” (sting of the scorpion), praised the people of Zamfara for their cooperation, particularly through the provision of vital intelligence, which has led to remarkable successes.

He called on troops to remain resilient and steadfast in their mission, emphasizing that commitment and sacrifice are essential to achieving lasting peace.


WASA: A Celebration of Military and Cultural Heritage
The West African Social Activities (WASA) program, a long-standing tradition of the Nigerian Army, serves as an avenue for troops and their families to relax, socialize, and celebrate the end of the year.
This year’s WASA event in Gusau was attended by top dignitaries, including representatives of the Zamfara State Governor and leaders of other security agencies like the Nigerian Air Force and paramilitary agencies.

The event featured colorful displays of cultural dances, traditional activities, and other performances that showcased Nigeria’s rich heritage, fostering camaraderie among military personnel, their families, and the host community.
Brigadier General Opurum assured attendees that the Nigerian Army would continue working tirelessly to ensure peace and stability in Zamfara and beyond.














