The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has issued a stern warning, promising measured responses and severe consequences for the perpetrators behind the killing of 15 military personnel in Delta State.
The tragic incident occurred during a communal clash over a land dispute in Bomadi and Okuoma communities, where personnel attached to the 181 Amphibious Battalion were ambushed and killed while responding to a distress call.
In a statement by Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, Director of Defence Media Operations, the DHQ expressed profound grief over the “senseless and barbaric” killings, emphasizing the supreme sacrifice made by the fallen troops in their quest to restore peace in the nation.
Assuring respect for the rule of engagement, human rights laws, and the principles of the Armed Forces Act, the DHQ reiterated the military’s commitment to upholding sovereignty and territorial integrity while seeking justice for the slain personnel.
Dispelling rumors of reprisal attacks by troops, Gen. Buba clarified that the community was deserted before the arrival of military personnel on the scene. He urged against spreading false information and called on the community to assist in identifying the perpetrators.
Emphasizing the unresolved dispute between Okuama and Okoloba communities, Gen. Buba urged Nigerians to refrain from sharing graphic videos of the incident out of respect for the fallen heroes and their grieving families.