President Bola Tinubu has declared that those responsible for the killing of 16 soldiers in Okuoma community in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State will not go unpunished.

Tinubu, who described the killing of the soldiers as a wicked act, said any attack on the military personnel is a direct attack on the nation.

The president said this in a statement on Sunday, March 17, 2024.

The Star had reported that a Commanding Officer, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 soldiers were killed during a communal clash in the community.

The military personnel met their deaths while responding to a distress call during a clash between Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State on Thursday, March 14.

However, Tinubu, in his reaction to the incident, 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.

Soldiers raze Delta community over colleagues’ killing

“I extend my profound condolences to the families of these fallen soldiers, their colleagues and their loved ones. The military high command is already responding to this incident. The cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime will not go unpunished.

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

“Members of our armed forces are at the heart and the core of our nationhood. Any attack on them is a direct attack on our nation. We will not accept this wicked act.”

President Tinubu noted that the Defence Headquarters and the Chief of Defence Staff have been granted full authority to bring to justice anybody found to have been responsible for “this unconscionable crime” against Nigerians.

“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 the members of our armed forces safe,” Tinubu added.

The Star