President Bola Tinubu has announced that the Nigerian soldiers killed in Delta state will be posthumously honored with national awards.
KanyiDaily reported how a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers were surrounded and killed by some community youths on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
The 16 deceased soldiers were among the troops deployed to restore order between two warring communities: Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta.
Reports indicate that the attackers subjected most of the deceased soldiers to horrific acts, including beheading and dismemberment.
The soldiers’ deaths elicited widespread condemnation across the nation.
In his response, President Tinubu emphasized his commitment to ensuring justice for those responsible for the “unconscionable crime.”
He expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of the officers, denouncing the act as a vile assault not only on the individuals but also on the nation as a whole.
Addressing attendees at the breaking of the Ramadan fast in Abuja, President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to the military and the bereaved families.
He hailed the fallen soldiers as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country, urging citizens to honor their memory and recognize their invaluable contributions.
Acknowledging the soldiers’ bravery in responding to a distress call, albeit meeting a tragic end, President Tinubu emphasized the need to commemorate their sacrifice and express gratitude for their selfless service.
“Let us pray for Nigeria. Let us see our country go through these problems. I accept the sympathy, and on behalf of the country, I saw your messages for the loss of the lives of our military men,” he said.
“We have to salute them as our heroes. Responding to a distress call, they met the end of their lives in a savagery manner. Let us work to sympathise and symbolise the fact that their lives are worth the sacrifices they are making for Nigeria.
“We salute all our men and women in uniform and we sympathise with them. They must have a befitting burial and they will have national honours.”
President Tinubu pledged to provide additional updates and directives regarding the incident, reaffirming his commitment to upholding justice and ensuring the welfare of Nigeria’s armed forces.
KanyiDaily recalls that the Senate had demanded justice for the soldiers who were brutally killed during the peacekeeping mission in Delta State.