The Nigeria Army has confirmed the killing of 22 of the troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, stationed in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, who were on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi LGA when they were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
Confirming the development in a statement yesterday, Brigadier Gen. Tukur Gusau, the acting Director of Defence Information, disclosed that the Delta State Government had been briefed about the situation.
Gusau stated: “The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, stationed in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, were on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi LGA when they were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
“The unfortunate incident unfolded as the troops responded to a distress call amid a communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities, both in Delta State.
“Additionally, the reinforcement team, led by the commanding officer, faced an attack resulting in the fatalities of the commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers.
“General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has ordered an immediate investigation and the arrest of those involved in this heinous crime.
“The Delta State Government has been notified of the incident.
“Nevertheless, the military remains resolute in its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the country.
“So far, a few arrests have been made, and efforts are underway to uncover the motive behind the attack.”
Channels TV reported last night that a joint task force, led by Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, has recovered 14 bodies of the victims from the rivers of Okuoma, where they were found floating. Some of the bodies were reportedly mutilated.
Delta Senator Dafinone Calls for Calm, Urges Probe of Incident
Responding to the situation, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central, called for restraint among those embroiled in the crisis.
He urged both the Federal and Delta State Governments to intervene urgently, describing the situation as regrettable and avoidable.
Dafinone appealed to the army to exercise discretion and adhere to the rules of engagement while handling the situation in Okuoma.
He implored residents of the affected areas to refrain from violence and encouraged the National Emergency Management Agency to provide relief materials to the displaced people of Okuama.
He appealed to the army to “act discreetly in this situation, that they should not allow their emotions to take the better part of their professional judgment by toning down their operations and observe the rules of engagement while dealing with civilians at Okuoma.”
“The National Emergency Management Agency should also reach out and provide relief materials to the people of Okuama, many of whom have been rendered homeless.”
