Killers Of 16 Soldiers In Delta Must Face Full Consequences Of Actions — Senate C’ttee On Army

… As Atiku Urges Restraints

The Senate Committee on Army has called for a decisive response to the killing of 16 military personnel by unknown gunmen in Delta State.

The soldiers, deployed to quell a communal clash between Ijaw and Urhobo communities, were reportedly ambushed and slain on Thursday and their bodies dismembered.

The dead include the Commanding Officer of the 181 Battalion, two Majors, and 13 soldiers.

The Director of Defence Information (DDI), Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, had said in a statement on Saturday: “The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, while on a peace mission to Okuoma community in BOMADI LGA of Delta State were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, 14 March 2024.

“The unfortunate incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call after the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities both in Delta State.

“The reinforcement team led by the Commanding officer was also attacked, leading to the death of the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 Soldiers.”

Reacting to the incident on Sunday, Senator AbdulAziz Yar’Adua (APC Katsina Central), Chair 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.

“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,” Senator Yar’Adua stated.

The committee offered condolences to the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the bereaved families. They saluted the fallen soldiers’ bravery and commitment, vowing their legacy will inspire the nation.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, in his reaction, urged the military to exercise restraints in responding to the incident.

Atiku’s caution followed reports that the Okuama coastal community where the killing of the soldiers took place was razed Sunday morning.

“The brutal killing of over a dozen Nigerian soldiers in Okuama in the Ughelli South Local Government Area and Okolaba in the Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State stands condemned. There can never be a justification for a premeditated killing of soldiers on a legitimate assignment.

“Even as we grieve the loss of these soldiers, who are not only Nigerians but have families and dependants, I urge restraints by the military authorities in its response. I would recommend that the culprits be arrested and prosecuted,” said the former vice president.