Nigerian Army Eliminates Key Ally of Terrorist Bello Turji in Sokoto Airstrike
Sokoto, May 18, 2025 – In a major blow to notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji, the Nigerian Army has confirmed the elimination of his key ally, Alhaji Shaudo Alku, in a precision airstrike near Tunfa Primary School in Isa Local Government Area, Sokoto State. The operation was carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fasan Yamma, the military’s counterterrorism campaign targeting bandits and terrorists in Northwestern Nigeria145.
Details of the Operation
According to an official statement from the Nigerian Armed Forces, Alhaji Shaudo Alku was a critical link in cross-border terrorist logistics, having crossed into Nigeria from Niger Republic to attend a clandestine strategy meeting convened by Bello Turji’s network. The airstrike, conducted on May 18, 2025, killed Alku alongside several other fighters and unconfirmed high-ranking commanders45.
The operation targeted terrorists hiding near Tunfa Primary School, disrupting their planning and command structure. The Nigerian Army described the strike as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist operations and restore security in the volatile region15.
Significance and Impact
Bello Turji, also known as Turji Kachalla, is a notorious bandit kingpin responsible for numerous violent attacks across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Niger states, resulting in hundreds of deaths and widespread insecurity. The elimination of Alku, one of his closest allies, is expected to significantly weaken Turji’s network and operational capabilities45.
The military’s sustained offensive, including previous operations that killed Turji’s son and other key commanders, reflects increased political will and improved intelligence coordination among security agencies in the Northwest17.
Community and Government Reactions
Residents of Sokoto and surrounding communities have lauded the Nigerian military and government officials, including President Bola Tinubu and Governor Bello Matawalle, for their commitment to combating terrorism and banditry. The success of the airstrike has boosted morale among security forces and local populations eager for peace and stability7.
Major General Edward Buba, outgoing Director of Defence Media Operations, praised the synergy between the Army, Air Force, and other security agencies, attributing recent gains to enhanced cooperation and strategic planning
