A human rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, has urged the Federal Government to ensure the the killers of 16 Nigerian Army personnel who were on a peace mission to the Okuama community in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State face justice.
A commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain, 12 soldiers, and one civilian lost their lives in the ambush on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
The corpses of the deceased were said to have been hidden by the assailants.
Some Okuama youths on Wednesday reportedly ambushed one Mr Anthony Aboh, an indigene of Okoloba, and held him hostage.
The neighbouring communities have been engaged in a communal land dispute since January 27, 2024, when some youths from Okoloba were said to have ambushed and killed three Okuama youths, Igho Meshack, Godspower Awusa, and Okiemute Agbabuleke, over an age-long land dispute in the area as they were returning from Okwagbe.
But reacting to the development in a statement on Sunday, Adeyanju described the ambush and killing of the soldiers as a “dastardly act.”
He said, “I call on the authorities to leave no stone unturned in ensuring those responsible for this dastardly act are brought to justice.
“It is with a heavy heart and deep sorrow that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of soldiers killed in Delta State. The news of the tragic incident that claimed the lives of the Commanding Officer, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers from the 181 Amphibious Battalion has left me in shock, disbelief and mourning.
“These brave men and women who protect us daily were on a noble peace mission, selflessly dedicating themselves to the service of our country and striving to bring stability and harmony to our country and the Okuoma community in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State.
“May the souls of our fallen heroes find eternal peace and rest. Their courage, dedication, and selflessness will forever be etched in our hearts and minds. We will forever be grateful for their service and sacrifice.”
