The Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Minister of State for Defence, Muhammed Bello Matawalle, have promised that the killers of 16 officers and soldiers of the 181 Amphibious Battalion in Okuoma community , Ughelli South local government area of Delta State, must be brought to book as directed by the President.
The four officers and 12 soldiers were ambushed and killed on Thursday, March 14, 2024, while responding to a crisis between Okuoma and Okoloba communities in Delta State.
According to a statement by the Director of Information, Ministry of Defence, Mr Henshaw Ogubike, the ambush at Okuoma commuinity resulted in the tragic loss of the Commanding Officer, 181 Amphibious Battalion, Lt. Col. A. H. Ali, two Majors, a Captain, and 12 others.
Açcording to the Ministers the 16 personnel died along with a civilian.
They said “This tragic incident underscores the immense sacrifices made by our service men 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”
The statement reiterated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had directed the Chief of Defence Staff “to actively investigate this incident to ensure that those responsible for the cowardly attack face the full force of the law.
“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 pepertrators to justice, and we remain resolute in our pursuit of peace and transquility across the nation inline with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”
Both Badaru and Matawalle reiterated the federal government resolve in maintaining peace and securing the nation.
-9News Nigeria.
