Zamfara APC Denies Links to Bello Turji

A viral image of an APC membership card claiming to show notorious bandit leader Bello Turji as a party member shocked Nigerians online. The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State immediately dismissed the card as a forgery, saying the aim is to tarnish the party’s image and mislead the public during its ongoing electronic re-registration exercise. The circulation highlighted how misinformation can undermine trust in civic processes and amplify insecurity narratives. Yet, the APC insists the document is fake, falsely linking Turji to its ranks. [Source]

Before mentioning dates and locations, it’s critical to understand the stakes. At the centre of this controversy is Bello Turji Kachalla, one of Nigeria’s most infamous bandit leaders. He is widely known for orchestrating deadly attacks in the northwest, especially in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Niger states. He’s linked to kidnappings, massacres, and highway raids that have destabilized communities for years. [Source]

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January 27, 2026 — Gusau, Zamfara State

On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State, the APC’s state chapter reacted swiftly to the online claim. In a statement made available to journalists, the party denounced the card and explained why the document could not be legitimate. The party confirmed it had no record of Bello Turji as a member of its ranks. [Source]

The Viral Card That Shook Social Media

The membership card bore the APC logo, an ID number, and a photograph resembling Bello Turji — dressed in what appears to be military or bandit attire. Some versions circulating online even showed the date “26 January 2026” stamped on the card, lending it a sense of immediacy. [Source]

Why the Card Looked Convincing

• It used the APC emblem.
• It displayed what looked like a membership ID.
• It linked a known public figure to a legitimate party.

The party pointed out key inconsistencies that exposed it as counterfeit. These details formed the basis of the APC’s rejection.

Zamfara APC’s Official Rebuttal

Malam Yusuf Idris, the Zamfara APC spokesman, said the card was a botched attempt to discredit the party’s electronic re-registration drive. According to Idris:

1. The membership card included a date and formatting that did not align with official APC records.
2. The registration code “26” on the card corresponds to Niger State, not Zamfara, which uses code “36.”
3. Turji does not have a National Identification Number (NIN), required for registration

[Source]

Who Is Bello Turji?

Bello Turji Kachalla is a notorious bandit leader from Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. He is responsible for kidnappings, mass shootings, and armed raids in northwest Nigeria. [Source]

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The Political Consequences of Fake Identity Claims

The APC’s electronic re-registration ties membership to individuals’ NINs. Introducing a forged card featuring Turji could:

• Damage the party image.
• Erode public trust.
• Be used by opponents as political leverage.

Legal and Security Implications

The APC has reported the matter to security agencies. Under Nigerian law:

• Forging official documents is punishable.
• Impersonating political figures can lead to prosecution.
• Spreading disinformation to incite distrust may violate cybercrime statutes.

[Source]

Public Reaction and Social Media Response

The story gained traction online. Some supported APC’s rebuttal, while others questioned the party’s integrity. Debates appeared on forums like Nairaland. This highlighted the modern challenge of information credibility.

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Investigations and Accountability

Investigations will focus on:

• Tracing the origin of the fake card.
• Identifying how it spread online.
• Determining if political rivals were involved.

Why This Matters for 2027 Elections

With general elections approaching, parties focus on public image and membership legitimacy. Fake controversies like this shape voter perceptions, particularly in states with insecurity like Zamfara. APC’s swift denial shows a strategy focused on credibility. [Source]

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Conclusion

The claim that Bello Turji was an APC member shook many Nigerians. The Zamfara APC’s outright denial, backed by procedural facts, confirms the card was a forgery. Investigators are expected to pursue those responsible. This episode highlights broader issues about misinformation, political rivalry, and public trust in Nigeria’s institutions. [Source]