In the aftermath of the tragic killing of 17 military personnel in Okuama community, Delta State, former Director of the Department of State Services, Mike Ejiofor, has raised concerns over the involvement of the Nigerian Army in investigating the incident, citing their vested interest.
During an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Ejiofor emphasized the need for both the Federal and State Governments to collaborate and establish independent probe panels inclusive of representatives from both ends to unravel the circumstances leading to the incident.
Ejiofor criticized the decision of the military leadership to deploy a significant contingent, including a lieutenant colonel, two majors, one captain, and 13 other military personnel, to settle a land dispute, suggesting that the matter requires thorough investigation beyond the military’s involvement.
He advocated for the inclusion of the police and DSS operatives in civilian assignments moving forward, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach involving all relevant stakeholders in peace initiatives to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The tragic event unfolded during a communal clash over a land dispute in Bomadi and Okuoma communities, resulting in the ambush and killing of the military personnel who were responding to a distress call. The Defence Headquarters released the names and pictures of the fallen personnel, comprising four officers and 13 soldiers.