Peter Obi condemns ‘in strongest terms’ killing of military personnel in Delta State

Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election has condemned “in the strongest terms, the mindless killing of security personnel who were on a peacekeeping mission in a community in Delta state.”

The former Anambra State Governor, who sympathised with all the bereaved and prayed God to grant the souls of the departed eternal rest, called on the Governor of the state to do all he can to ensure minimal damage and calm frayed nerves following the incident, including the involvement of community leaders.

The Defence Headquarters had confirmed that youths of Okuama community in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State had attacked troops of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, in Bomadi Local Government Area who were in the area on a peace mission resulting in the killing of the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain and 12 Soldiers.

Tukur Gusau, Brigadier General and Acting Director, Defence Information, in a statement titled “Situation report on the attack and killing of military personnel on peace mission by Okuama community” confirmed the killing of the personnel and noted that some arrests had been made while investigations had been ordered by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa.

President Bola Tinubu has, also, in a statement, authorized the military high command to ensure that those responsible for the killings are brought to book.

Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, in his statement had 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.”