In a startling revelation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio suggested on Tuesday that the perpetrators behind the brutal killing of 15 Nigerian soldiers in Delta State might be foreign mercenaries rather than domestic assailants.
During a debate on motions concerning the tragic incident, Akpabio expressed his doubts about the nationality of the attackers, stating, “We are not at war. I don’t think they are from the Niger Delta. They may be mercenaries.”
The attack occurred on Thursday, March 14, when armed assailants ambushed the soldiers during a peace mission to Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
In response to the grave situation, the Senate swiftly ordered a thorough investigation into the killings. The Committee on Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force was tasked with collaborating with military authorities to uncover the underlying causes of what was described as “a dastardly act.”
Furthermore, the Senate urged the Federal Government to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure that they face justice. A minute of silence was observed in honor of the fallen soldiers, highlighting the gravity of the tragedy.
Recognizing the need to prevent further escalation of violence, the Senate emphasized the importance of bolstering police recruitment to mitigate the reliance on the military in civil matters.
While the Senate rejected a motion to extend condolences to the families of innocent civilians who lost their lives in the incident, citing uncertainty regarding the exact number of casualties, it unanimously agreed to provide immediate compensation to the families of the slain soldiers.
This resolution underscored the Senate’s commitment to supporting the victims’ loved ones during this difficult time.
In a poignant moment, Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, called for swift compensation for the affected families, a sentiment that was echoed and seconded by Senator Tony Nwoye, emphasizing the Senate’s solidarity with the grieving families of the fallen soldiers.