The Defence Headquarters is gearing up to reveal the identities and photographs of a new group of wanted terrorist and bandit leaders, replacing the prominent figures recently eliminated. This development comes after the successful elimination of key terrorists and bandit leaders, leading to the emergence of fresh leaders.
In November 2022, the DHQ declared 19 bandit leaders wanted and offered a reward of N5 million for each, encouraging Nigerians to provide valuable information for their arrest. Among the notable figures declared wanted were Bello Turji, Ali Kachalla, Ado Aliero, Halilu Sububu, Sani Dangote, Leko, Dogo Nahali, Nagona, Monore, Gwaska Dankarami, Baleri, Mamudu Tainange, and others.
A source revealed to the PUNCH that the military is preparing to release a new list of wanted terrorists. According to the source, work is underway to compile the list, which will include photographs. The source urged Nigerians to cooperate for the successful neutralization of these individuals.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, confirmed that work is ongoing on the new list. He assured that the list would be released soon.
The military has successfully eliminated numerous terrorist and bandit leaders in various operations. One of the prominent figures was Boderi, responsible for several high-profile kidnappings. Boderi, along with another kingpin named Bodejo, was killed in February 2024.
In February 2024, the troops neutralized 10 terrorist kingpins, including Ashiru, Kachambi, Dogon Rakumi, Sulen Nagala, Laushi, Bangis, Alhaji Kabiru, Alhaji Baldu, and Baban Yara. In July 2023, the military eliminated a bandit leader named Dogo Gudali in Zamfara. Similarly, in January 2023, bandit kingpin Alhaji Shadari and some of his gang members were killed in Zamfara State.