Fear of reprisal grips Delta community following killing of military personnel
There is fear, anxiety and palpable tension in Okuama community in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State following the attack by youths of the community on troops of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, in Bomadi Local Government Area that resulted in the killing of the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain and 12 Soldiers.
Anxiety is said to have gripped residents who fear that the military would invade and sack the community in retaliation for the killing of their officers and men who are said to have gone on a peace mission to the area.
A statement by Tukur Gusau, Brigadier General and Acting Director, Defence Information, titled “Situation report on the attack and killing of military personnel on peace mission by Okuama community” said:
“The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State while on peace mission to Okuama community in BOMADI LGA of Delta State were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, 14 March, 2024. The unfortunate incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call after the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities both in Delta State.
“The reinforcement team led by the Commanding Officer was also attacked, leading to the death of the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain and 12 Soldiers.
“The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime. The occurrence has been reported to the Delta State Govt.
“However, the military remains focused and committed to its mandate of maintaining peace and security in the country. So far, a few arrests have been made while steps in place to unravel the motive behind the attack. Additional details later.”
The tension in the community is said to be as a result of past instances where the military sacked communities that attacked and (or) killed their personnel, including in Benue and Bayelsa States.
Though the statement by the Defence Spokesman said the Chief of Defence Staff has ordered investigation into the attack and killing of the personnel and that some arrests have been made, sources said that there is still apprehension among residents of the community who fear that the worst is yet to come.
