Shaudo Alku, a close associate of the notorious terrorist kingpin, Bello Turji, has been confirmed killed in a targeted airstrike.
The operation, carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fasan Yama, struck a terrorist hideout near Tunfa Primary School in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State on Sunday.
The Nigerian Armed Forces confirmed that Alku, a key link in cross-border terrorist logistics, was killed alongside several fighters and suspected high-ranking commanders.
According to intelligence reports, Alku had crossed into Nigeria from Niger Republic to attend a clandestine strategy meeting convened by Turji’s network.
A source from the military who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “Surveillance and actionable intelligence enabled the Nigerian military to pinpoint the gathering, prompting a swift and decisive air assault that neutralised multiple targets.
“This operation marks a significant step in dismantling the command structure of terrorist groups operating across the North West.
“Alku was not just a foot soldier. He was deeply involved in arms procurement and coordination of cross-border insurgent activity.”
The Nigerian Army, via its official communication channels, described the success as a demonstration of its resolve to rid the country of terrorism and restore peace to the embattled communities of Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina States.
The statement added that mop-up operations were ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to apprehend fleeing terrorists.
Bello Turji, long considered one of the most dangerous and elusive bandit leaders in the region, has maintained a brutal reign marked by mass abductions, killings, and attacks on civilian settlements.
His network stretches across state and international borders, complicating military operations.
The elimination of Alku, according to a security expert in Sokoto, is expected to disrupt the logistical and operational capabilities of Turji’s faction, though analysts caution that the battle is far from over.
“This is a big win, no doubt.
“But dismantling terrorist networks requires sustained pressure and coordination with neighbouring countries, especially Niger and Chad,” said a conflict and security analyst, Dr. Yusuf Anka.
Residents in Isa LG have expressed relief over the development.
“We heard the explosions and later saw helicopters. It gave us hope that the government has not forgotten us,” said a resident who requested anonymity for security reasons.
This strike is the latest in a series of intensified aerial offensives launched under Operation Fagge Yama, a renewed military campaign aimed at rooting out terrorists and bandits in Nigeria’s troubled North West.
As of press time, the Nigerian military has promised to release further details, including casualty figures and intelligence gains from the operation.
