Nigeria: Senate demands justice for slain army personnel in Delta

In a resounding denouncement of the brutal slaying of 16 Army personnel from ‘Operation Delta Safe’ in the Okuama community of Ughelli South Local Government Area in Delta State, the Senate has issued a fervent call for the perpetrators to face the full weight of the law.

The tragedy unfolded during a peacekeeping mission aimed at mediating conflicts between two feuding communities.

Reacting to the grievous loss, the Senate, in a statement released on Sunday, emphasized the imperative of holding the culprits accountable for their actions.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Nigerian Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, underscored the solemnity of the sacrifice made by the Commanding Officer, three officers, and twelve soldiers, whose lives were tragically cut short during the incident. Their valor and dedication, he remarked, epitomized the highest ideals of patriotism, courage, and selflessness.

In the statement, Senator Yar’adua conveyed the Senate’s heartfelt condolences to the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the entire Nigerian Army community, expressing solidarity in mourning the fallen heroes.

“On behalf of the 10th Senate Committee on Nigerian Army, I wish to extend our deepest condolences to the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Nigerian Army and officers and men of Operation Delta Safe on the tragic loss of our galant personnel who were mercilessly killed by some youths during a peace mission to Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday 14th March 2024.

“The sacrifices made by the Commanding Officer, 3 officers, and 12 soldiers during this distressing incident shall forever be remembered. Their bravery and commitment exemplify the highest virtue of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice, and their legacy will forever inspire us all.

“I wish to commend the swift response of the Chief of Defense Staff in directing an immediate investigation to apprehend those responsible for this heinous crime. It is crucial that justice is served and those behind this criminal act are brought to account for their actions. The Nigerian Army’s unwavering focus on upholding peace and security in our nation is a testament to the resilience and dedication of our Armed Forces.

“The Senate Committee on the Nigerian Army stands resolutely alongside the Defence Headquarters and the Nigerian Army in seeking justice for the fallen heroes. We shall spare no effort in supporting the necessary investigations and legal processes to ensure that those responsible for this crime face the full consequences of their actions.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with you, the families of the fallen heroes, and the entire Armed Forces as we honour the sacrifice and service of our brave personnel,” the statement read.

He commended the swift response of the Chief of Defence Staff in initiating an immediate investigation to apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous crime.

The Senate Committee on the Nigerian Army pledged unwavering support to the Defence Headquarters and the Nigerian Army in their quest for justice. Vowing to spare no effort in aiding investigations and legal proceedings, Senator Yar’adua affirmed the Senate’s commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the atrocity are brought to justice.

As the nation grapples with the loss of these brave servicemen, the Senate’s statement serves as a beacon of resolve, reaffirming the nation’s dedication to upholding peace and security.

The collective thoughts and prayers of the Senate, extended to the families of the fallen heroes and the entire Armed Forces, serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in service to the nation.

In the face of this tragedy, the Senate stands firm in its demand for justice, echoing the sentiments of a nation in mourning and underscoring the indomitable spirit of Nigeria’s armed forces in the pursuit of peace and security.