President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led a gathering of governors, federal lawmakers, top military officials, dignitaries, grieving families, and devastated friends in paying their final respects to 17 courageous military personnel who were brutally slain in Delta State. The solemn event took place at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, with President Tinubu serving as the Special Guest of Honour.
The soldiers fell victim to vicious criminals from the riverine Okuoma village on March 14, 2024, during a peacekeeping mission between the warring Okuama and Okoloba communities in the region. Among the attendees were General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS); Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS); Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS); and Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS).
Also present were Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and members of both legislative chambers. Notable governors such as Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Usman Ododo (Kogi), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), and Abba Yusuf (Kano) attended alongside members of their state executives.
The 17 fallen personnel, including the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion,
The 17 fallen personnel, including the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, two majors, one captain, and 12 battalion members, were laid to rest at 6 pm following funeral rites. COAS Lieutenant-General Lagbaja condemned the barbaric killings, emphasizing the Army’s determination to bring the perpetrators to justice and recover missing weapons.
General Musa echoed this sentiment, promising to pursue the perpetrators relentlessly. He also assured the families of the fallen soldiers, including three widows who are pregnant, of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering support.
The tragic incident, sparked by a communal land dispute, drew widespread condemnation. President Tinubu denounced it as an assault on the nation and instructed security agencies to apprehend the culprits. He also announced plans to confer national honors on the slain soldiers.
The Senate and civil society organizations joined in condemning the brutal murders, calling for the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible. The slain soldiers, hailed as heroes, will be remembered for their sacrifice as the nation remains steadfast in its quest for peace and security.
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