Minister of Defence’s Directive Spurs Military Successes in Sokoto and Zamfara
By Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu
Northern Bureau Chief
January 23, 2025
The on going successful ground and air military operations in Sokoto and Zamfara states have been attributed to the strategic intervention of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar. During a recent visit to the region, the minister issued a resolute directive to the military, calling for the capture of the notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, dead or alive.
This decisive order has galvanized the military, resulting in significant advancements in the fight against banditry and insecurity in the region. The operations, characterized by coordinated airstrikes and robust ground assaults, have reportedly dismantled key hideouts of criminal elements and disrupted their operational networks.
Military sources indicate that since the minister’s visit, morale among troops has surged, and intelligence-sharing has been intensified, leading to the neutralization of dozens of bandits and the rescue of kidnapped victims. Communities previously plagued by incessant attacks are now witnessing a renewed sense of security and hope.
Residents in affected areas have lauded the Minister of Defence for his proactive approach and expressed optimism about the lasting impact of the ongoing operations. “We can finally sleep with both eyes closed. The military’s presence is felt everywhere, and their efforts are yielding results,” a resident of Shinkafi in Zamfara State stated.
Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, known for his results-oriented leadership, emphasized during his visit that the federal government remains committed to restoring peace and stability in the North-West. He assured the military of continued support in terms of logistics, intelligence, and welfare, urging them to sustain the momentum.
The minister’s directive to capture Turji—a figure synonymous with terror in the region—has sent a strong message to other criminal groups. Analysts view this move as a strategic turning point in the government’s counter-banditry efforts, signaling a zero-tolerance stance against insecurity.
As the military continues its operations with renewed vigor, stakeholders are calling for sustained collaboration among security agencies, community leaders, and local vigilante groups to consolidate the gains and prevent a resurgence of banditry in Sokoto, Zamfara, and beyond.
The nation awaits further updates on the ongoing operations, as hopes rise for the eventual capture of Turji and the restoration of peace in the region.
