President Tinubu Orders Manhunt for Killers of Nigerian Soldiers in Delta State

President Bola Tinubu and the Senate issued directives on Sunday for the military to apprehend the perpetrators responsible for the killing of 16 Nigerian soldiers who were on a peacekeeping mission to the Okuama community in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Following these orders, the military conducted operations in the affected areas and made several arrests, including three main suspects. 

President Tinubu emphasized that the Defense Headquarters and Chief of Defense Staff were empowered to ensure justice for those responsible for the attack.

Retired army generals and civil society organizations strongly condemned the killings and urged swift prosecution to deter similar acts in the future.

16 Nigerian Soldiers were killed in Ambush

Many residents of the Okuama and Okolaba communities fled after the soldiers’ deaths, prompting heightened security measures in the area.

The bodies of the slain soldiers were recovered, and it was reported that a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, 12 soldiers, and a civilian lost their lives in the ambush.

The conflict between the neighbouring communities stemmed from a communal land dispute, which escalated when youths from Okoloba ambushed and killed three Okuama youths in January.

Tensions increased further when Okuama youths reportedly held an Okoloba native hostage.

In response to the situation, Joint Task Force (JTF) personnel were deployed for rescue, but clashes erupted between the youths and the military, resulting in casualties on both sides.

Tinubu vows retribution

President Tinubu vowed that those responsible for the soldiers’ deaths would face justice. The Senate also expressed condolences to the military and pledged support for investigations into the incident.

In a statement he signed, he declared, “The cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime will not go unpunished.”

The response is titled ‘Statement on the killing of the Nigerian soldiers on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Delta State.’

Former military chiefs and other stakeholders condemned the killings, emphasizing the need for justice and improved security measures.

Human rights organizations decried the incident, urging a thorough investigation and adherence to human rights laws in prosecuting the perpetrators.

However, some expressed concerns over alleged reprisal attacks by the military and called for caution to prevent further violence.

Amidst calls for justice and condemnation of the killings, community leaders emphasized the need for accurate information and urged authorities to address underlying grievances to prevent future conflicts.

The Pan-Niger Delta Forum also condemned the killings and called for a comprehensive investigation to ensure accountability.