In the wake of the tragic killing of 17 soldiers and civilians in Okuama, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, the Nigerian Army, under the directive of General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army/Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation Delta State, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, has vowed to persist in their efforts until justice is served.
Speaking during a condolence visit by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Major General Abdussalam assured that troops would remain resolute in their mission until all stolen weapons are recovered, and all perpetrators are brought to justice.
“The mission handed to troops by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is basically to recover the weapons carted away by the perpetrators of this heinous crime and ensure that all those involved are arrested,” Major General Abdussalam reiterated.
He emphasized the professionalism and commitment of the troops, stating, “Troops will continue to be in the creeks until these objectives are achieved.”
Major General Abdussalam called for support from the public in providing credible intelligence to aid in tracking down the suspects and recovering the stolen weapons.
He assured the populace that the operation would be conducted with respect for human rights and adherence to rules of engagement.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is the symbol of our sovereignty,” Major General Abdussalam asserted. “An attack on our Armed Forces is an attack on our nation.”
In response, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku expressed solidarity with the Nigerian Army and condemned the violent incident in Okuama.
He highlighted the importance of peace and security for development in the Niger Delta region and reiterated the commitment of the NDDC to collaborate with the military to restore peace.
“This unfortunate incident didn’t define the people of the Niger Delta region,” Dr. Ogbuku remarked. “For years now, the people of the region have embraced peace and dialogue.”
He called on all stakeholders to support the efforts of the Nigerian Army in bringing the perpetrators to justice, emphasizing that justice must be served for those who lost their lives in the tragic event.
The condolence visit underscored the unity and determination of both the military and civil authorities to ensure peace and security in the Niger Delta region and across Nigeria.