ASABA/Nigeria: In a tragic turn of events, the serene tranquility of Delta State was shattered by the ruthless ambush and killing of military personnel on a peace mission. The incident, which occurred in the Okuama community of Ughelli South Local Government Area, left a somber cloud over the region.
Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta, in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, expressed profound dismay at the unprovoked violence perpetrated against officers and soldiers attached to the 63 Brigade, describing the killings as heinous act.
“The Government of Delta State is gravely disturbed by the violence and unprovoked killing of the officers and soldiers,” Governor Oborevwori asserted. He emphasized that such brutality is alien to the peaceful culture and tradition of the Delta people, vehemently denouncing the perpetrators and assuring that justice would prevail.
Governor Oborevwori extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen heroes and the Nigerian Army, reaffirming the state’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of its citizens. He vowed to pursue all measures necessary to apprehend those responsible for the dastardly act and hold them accountable before the law.
Meanwhile, the situation report on the attack revealed the grim reality faced by the military personnel. The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi Local Government Area, were on a peace mission to Okuama community in response to a distress call stemming from communal strife between Okuama and Okoloba communities. Tragically, they were met with hostility, resulting in the loss of lives, including that of a commanding officer and several other officers and soldiers.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has ordered for an immediate investigation and the arrest of the perpetrators, he however stated that despite the adversity faced, the military remains resolute in its duty to uphold peace and security in the nation.
However investigation has revealed that the crisis in Delta State took grim turn as more than 15 soldiers on a rescue mission to Okuama community were ambushed and killed.
According to the investigation, the military team, led by Major Jaffa, had embarked on a mission to free a kidnapped youth amidst the ongoing land dispute between Okuama and Okoloba communities.
Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing ordeal, describing how the military personnel were caught off guard by a barrage of bullets during their retreat from a failed negotiation attempt. The casualties, including high-ranking officers.
As the investigation unfolds and the search for justice intensifies, Delta State and its communities mourn the loss of brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The resilience of the military and the resolve of the government stand as beacons of hope amidst this dark chapter, as efforts to restore peace and security continue unabated.
