Killing of soldiers portrays Nigeria in bad light, IPCR laments

The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution has condemned the killing of 16 soldiers in a communal clash in Delta State.

Mutilated bodies of the soldiers were recovered by the Joint Task Force under the supervision of the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, at the Okuama community.

A commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain, 12 soldiers, and one civilian lost their lives in the ambush on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

The neighbouring communities have been engaged in a communal land dispute since January 27, 2024, when some youths from Okoloba were said to have ambushed and killed three Okuama youths, Igho Meshack, Godspower Awusa, and Okiemute Agbabuleke, over an age-long land dispute in the area as they were returning from Okwagbe.

In a statement personally signed by the Director-General, IPCR, Joseph Ochogwu, on Monday, the institute noted that the act portrayed the country in a bad light at a point when President Bola Tinubu was doing his best to wage war against insecurity.

Ochogwu stated that security personnel should be commended for their efforts in securing the nation and not being killed.

He stated, “IPCR condemns the killings of 16 soldiers in the autonomous community of Okuama, Ewu Kingdom, in Ughelli South Area of Delta State.

“It is very sad that while we are praying fervently and working for peace in our country to encourage and attract development, some persons are out there perpetuating violence.

“The killing of our trained officers and soldiers, who were on a peace mission has portrayed the country in a bad light at a point when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is using all within his power to wage war against insecurity.

“Our gallant security personnel needs commendation in their patriotic effort to secure the nation in this trying time. They need the support of every Nigerian, irrespective of the state or region. Citizens must give the military one hundred per cent support as the institution represents our national sovereignty.”

The DG therefore called for a proper investigation into the incident.

“The bravery and commitment of our soldiers exemplify the highest virtue of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice, and they should be supported to boost their morale to do more for the country.

“We are calling for a thorough investigation into the incident and urging the military to remain very professional at all times no matter the provocation,” he added.