By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
The Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru and the Minister of State for Defence Dr Muhammed Matawalle have assured Nigerians that the Federal government will spare no effort in bringing to justice killers of some military personnel on a rescue mission in Okuama Community in Delta State.
The incident occurred on Thursday, March 14, 2024, when troops of the 181 Amphibious Battalion in Okuama Community Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, responding to a crisis between Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State, were ambushed and killed by some irate youths in the area.
The Ministers’ reactions were contained in a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations in the Defence ministry, Mr Henshaw Ogubike on Monday, which quoted the Ministers as saying, “we remain resolute in our pursuit of peace and tranquillity across the nation in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”.
The Ministers condemned in totality the heinous attack on the Military personnel resulting in the tragic loss of the Commanding Officer 181 Amphibious Battalion Lt Col AH Ali, two Majors, a Captain, and 12 soldiers, along with a civilian.
“This tragic incident underscores the immense sacrifices made by our servicemen and women in the defence of our nation. Their unwavering dedication and courage in the face of danger exemplify the highest ideals of patriotism and duty”, they noted.
According to the statement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Chief of Defence Staff, to actively investigate this incident to ensure that those responsible for this cowardly attack face the full force of the law.
The Ministers futher stated: “We affirm our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the security and well-being of all Nigerians and will not tolerate any threat to our nation’s sovereignty and stability. Additionally, we assure the Nigerian people that every effort will be made to bring the perpetrators to justice, and we remain resolute in our pursuit of peace and tranquillity across the nation in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”.
Badaru and Matawalle reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve in maintaining, securing the nation and the people of Nigeria.
According to them : “Our unwavering support for the armed forces and their efforts to maintain peace and stability across the country is not negotiable. We will continue to work tirelessly towards achieving lasting peace and tranquillity in every region of our dear country. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the fallen soldiers, as well as with the entire nation mourning this irreparable loss. We stand united in grief with all well-meaning Nigerians and the men and women of our armed forces during this difficult time. READ ALSO:
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The Defence Headquarters and Chief of Defence Staff have been granted full authority to bring to justice anybody found to have been responsible “for this unconscionable crime against the Nigerian people, by the President” the statement noted,
It further pointed out that “Nigerian security would be better under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s watch”, adding that “this incidence would not stop the Nigerian gallant Military from performing their constitutional duty of provision of security for all Nigerians”.
