Senate Seeks Justice For 16 Soldiers Killed In Delta During Communal Clash

The Senate has demanded justice for the soldiers who were brutally killed by gunmen during a peacekeeping mission in Delta State.

KanyiDaily had reported how a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers were surrounded and killed by some community youths on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

The 16 deceased soldiers were among the troops deployed to restore order between two warring communities: Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta.

Reports indicate that the attackers subjected most of the deceased soldiers to horrific acts, including beheading and dismemberment.

About 14 bodies have been recovered and brought to the jetty of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Bomadi, the headquarters of Bomadi Local Government Area.

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’s Committee on Army, chaired by Senator AbdulAziz Yar’Adua (APC Katsina Central), strongly condemned the massacre of these security personnel.

The Senate pledged unwavering support for thorough investigations and legal actions to ensure that the perpetrators face the full consequences of their actions.

The Committee on Nigerian Army extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Armed Forces, acknowledging the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes.

It commended the swift response of the Chief of Defence Staff in directing an immediate investigation and emphasized the importance of serving justice to those responsible for the heinous crime.

The Senate stands in solidarity with the Defense Headquarters and the Army in seeking justice for the fallen heroes, promising unwavering support in the pursuit of necessary investigations and legal processes.

“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.

KanyiDaily recalls that yesterday, fire engulfed the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State where the 16 soldiers on a peacekeeping mission were killed.