President Bola Tinubu has vowed that the killers of 16 Nigerian soldiers who were ambushed during a rescue mission in Okuama community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, will not go unpunished.
In a personal statement on Sunday, Tinubu expressed grief over the “needless death” of the soldiers, who included a Commanding Officer, two Majors, one Captain, and twelve soldiers. A civilian was also killed during the incident, which occurred on Thursday.
The soldiers were responding to a crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State when they were ambushed by unknown gunmen.
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Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, their colleagues, and loved ones, describing the incident as a “heinous crime.”
His words, “The cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime will not go unpunished.
“This incident, once again, demonstrates the dangers faced by our servicemen and women in the line of duty. I salute their heroism, courage, and uncommon grit and patriotism. As a nation, we must constantly remember and honour all those who have paid the ultimate price to keep our nation safe, strong, and united. The officers and men who died in Okuama community have joined the pantheon of great men and women who gave their all, with honour, in the service of our fatherland.
“Members of our armed forces are at the heart and core of our nationhood. Any attack on them is a direct attack on our nation. We will not accept this wicked act. The Defence Headquarters and Chief of Defence Staff have been granted full authority to bring to justice anybody found to have been responsible for this unconscionable crime against the Nigerian people. My government will not relent until we achieve peace and tranquillity in every part of Nigeria.”
Reacting to the incident earlier, Senator AbdulAziz Yar’Adua (APC Katsina Central), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, expressed outrage at the “massacre” and pledged to support the military to hold the perpetrators accountable.
“It is crucial that justice is served and those behind this criminal act are brought to account for their actions. The Nigerian Army’s unwavering focus on upholding peace and security in our nation is a testament to the resilience and dedication of our Armed Forces,” Senator Yar’Adua stated, adding “The Senate Committee on the Nigerian Army stands resolutely alongside the Defense Headquarters and the Nigerian Army in seeking justice for the fallen heroes. We shall spare no effort in supporting the necessary investigations and legal processes to ensure that those responsible for this crime face the full consequences of their actions.”
However, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar urged the military to exercise restraint in responding to the incident.