ISIS woos Bello Turji, other notorious bandits in Nigeria

The Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP), known locally as Lakuruwa, is reportedly using propaganda recordings and WhatsApp messages to recruit bandit leaders across northwestern Nigeria. Journalist Yusuf Anka identified Abu Musa as a key figure coordinating the campaign through religious appeals and promises of support. The group allegedly targets influential commanders, including Bello Turji and Dogo Gide. However, security analysts say Gide favours Al-Qaeda-linked Ansaru and JNIM over Islamic State.

The Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP), locally known as Lakuruwa, has reportedly launched a propaganda campaign to recruit bandit groups operating across northwestern Nigeria.

According to a report by journalist Yusuf Anka, audio recordings reveal efforts to influence armed groups in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, Kaduna and Niger states.

The report identifies Abu Musa, an ISSP commander in Zamfara, as a figure coordinating recruitment efforts.

One recording states:

“We are willing to help all oppressed groups in strategy (combat), especially if there are Muslims in all tribes or ethnic groups; we are prepared to support them in whatever way. We call on the people (terrorists) of Kaduna, Zamfara, and Kebbi, on the border between Benin and Nigeria, to embrace peace with Daula (Islamic State), Daula will live peacefully with you if you don’t attack us.”

Meanwhile, security analysts Brant Philip and James Barnett said bandit leader Dogo Gide favours Ansaru-linked groups over Islamic State.