Tinubu Grants Defence HQ, CDS Powers To Fetch Killers Of Military Personnel In Delta Community

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday, March 17, 2024, granted the Defence Headquarters and Chief of Defence Staff full authority to bring to justice anybody found to have been responsible for the unprovoked killing of military personnel during a rescue mission in Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

This was as he said that the military high command is already responding to this incident and vowed that as the Commander-in-Chief, the cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime would not go unpunished.

The President described the killing of the military personnel as unconscionable crime against the Nigerian people, stressing that members of our armed forces are at the heart and core of our nationhood.

Tinubu in a statement he personally signed, pointedly said that any attack on the military is a direct attack on the nation thus, will not accept the wicked act.

He noted that the incident occurred on Thursday, March 14, 2024, when the Nigerian troops while responding to a crisis between Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State, were ambushed.

He said that a Commanding Officer, two Majors, one Captain, and twelve soldiers sadly lost their lives in addition to one civilian that was also killed.

Tinubu further said; “As the Commander-in-Chief, I join all well-meaning Nigerians and the men and women of our armed forces to mourn and express my profound grief over the needless death of our gallant soldiers.

“I extend my profound condolences to the families of these fallen soldiers, their colleagues, and their loved ones.

“This incident, once again, demonstrates the dangers faced by our servicemen and women in the line of duty. I salute their heroism, courage, and uncommon grit and patriotism.

“As a nation, we must constantly remember and honour all those who have paid the ultimate price to keep our nation safe, strong, and united.

“The officers and men who died in Okuama community have joined the pantheon of great men and women who gave their all, with honour, in the service of our fatherland.

“My government will not relent until we achieve peace and tranquillity in every part of Nigeria. May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and keep members of our armed forces safe,” the President said.