PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has condemned the killing of the Nigerian military personnel by some youths during a rescue mission in Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Tinubu in a statement on Sunday, March 17, described the killings as ‘needless’ and vowed that the offenders responsible for the crime will not go unpunished.
The ICIR had on Saturday reported how 15 military personnel, consisting of two Majors, one Captain, and 12 soldiers were said to have been killed by some youths in Okuoma community in Bomadi Local Government Area (LGA).
The incident occurred on Thursday, March 14, 2024, when the troops responding to a crisis between Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State, were ambushed.
The attacks has, however, generated public outrage as many Nigerians demand that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
They also appealed to the military against launching an attack on the entire family, emphasising on the need to of punishing only the perpetrators.
There were, however, reports speculating that the military in the aftermath of the report have set Okuoma community ablaze.
Reacting to the attack, Tinubu said the incidence demonstrated the dangers faced by our servicemen and women in the line of duty, applauding 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,” the president said.
He, therefore, reassured that his administration will not relent until peace and tranquillity are restored in every part of Nigeria.
Usman Mustapha is a solution journalist with International Centre for Investigative Reporting. You can easily reach him via: [email protected]. He tweets @UsmanMustapha_M