By Seyi Babalola
The Senate has demanded justice for the policemen and soldiers who were shot and slain by unidentified gunmen in Delta State while on a peace mission to the riverbanks of Ijaw and Urhobo villages.
Following an ambush by the ferocious warriors from both communities, the criminals massacred no less than sixteen military commanders and troops of the Nigerian Army on Thursday. Among them were the Commanding Officer of 181 Battalion, two Army Majors, and thirteen soldiers.
Reports state that the murderers beheaded and dismembered the majority of the security personnel who died, and that 14 bodies have been removed and taken to the Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) jetty in Bomadi, which serves as the state’s headquarters for the Bomadi Local Government Area.
The troops, who were deployed to quell the crisis between an Urhobo community, Opuama, and Ijaw community, Okoloba, in Ughelli South and Bomadi local government areas, respectively, were ambushed by the gunmen.
In a condolence message to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Senate, through its Committee on Army, chaired by Senator AbdulAziz Yar’Adua (APC Katsina Central), condemned the massacre of the security personnel by the gunmen, assuring of support on the probe and legal action that would make the criminals face the full wrath of law.
“On behalf of the 10th Senate, the Committee on Nigerian Army, I wish to extend our deepest condolences to the Chief of Defense Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Nigerian Army and officers and men of Operation Delta Safe on the tragic loss of our gallant personnel who were mercilessly killed by some youths during a peace mission to Okuama Community in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday, 14th March, 2024.
“The sacrifices made by the Commanding Officer, three officers, and 12 soldiers during this distressing incident shall forever be remembered. Their bravery and commitment exemplify the highest virtue of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice, and their legacy will forever inspire us all.
“I wish to commend the swift response of the Chief of Defense Staff in directing an immediate investigation to apprehend those responsible for this heinous crime. 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.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you, the families of the fallen heroes, and the entire Armed Forces as we honour the sacrifice and service of our brave personnel,” Senator Yar’Adua stated.
