Nigerian army to bury slain soldiers amid unrest in Delta State

The Nigerian Army has announced that the soldiers killed in the Okuama community in Delta State will be laid to rest today (Wednesday) at the National Cemetery in Abuja.

The disclosure came through a statement posted on the Nigerian Army’s official handle on Tuesday, revealing that the burial ceremony is scheduled for 3 pm, with President Bola Tinubu set to attend as the Special Guest of Honour.

Nigerian Army Announces Burial Ceremony #RIPFallenHeroes #ThankASoldier🕯️ pic.twitter.com/8FEAW7BfUP

— Nigerian Army (@HQNigerianArmy) March 26, 2024

Topnaija reported that the tragic incident occurred during a communal clash over a land dispute between Bomadi and Okuoma communities in Delta State, resulting in the loss of at least 17 military personnel.

The soldiers, attached to the 181 Amphibious Battalion, were ambushed and killed while responding to a distress call.

Following the killings, there were rumours of a military reprisal against the communities involved. However, the Defence Headquarters refuted these allegations, emphasising their commitment to apprehending the culprits through lawful means.

President Tinubu and the Senate issued directives for the military to apprehend the perpetrators, leading to the arrest of several individuals, including three prime suspects.

Retired army generals and civil society organisations have also condemned the killings, demanding swift prosecution of the perpetrators.

In Abuja on Tuesday, at the Chief of Defence Staff Joint Task Force Commanders Conference, the immediate-past Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (retd.), called for further analysis and dialogue regarding the incident. He stressed the need for justice and cautioned against any erosion of the military’s integrity.

Gen. Irabor highlighted the evolving nature of insecurity in Nigeria, urging a comprehensive approach to address the challenges.

Similarly, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasised the importance of building strong relationships with border communities to enhance national security.