Sixteen Nigerian soldiers have been killed by youths in Okuoma Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State.
The Director of Information at the Defence Headquarters, Tukur Gusau, who disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, said the deceased soldiers were on a peacekeeping mission before they were surrounded and killed on Thursday.
Gusau stated, “The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, while on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi LGA of Delta State, were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, March 14, 2024.”
“The unfortunate incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call after the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities both in Delta State.
“The reinforcement team led by the Commanding officer was also attacked, leading to the death of the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 Soldiers.”
He said that some suspects have been apprehended in connection with the incident, and Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, has ordered an immediate investigation.
Gusau emphasized that the incident has been reported to the Delta State government, and measures are being taken to uncover the motives behind the attack.
“CDS has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime. The occurrence has been reported to the Delta State Govt,” the statement adds.
“However, the military remains focused and committed to its mandate of maintaining peace and security in the country.
“So far, a few arrests have been made while steps are in place to unravel the motive behind the attack. Additional details later.”
Clashes between military personnel and unrest within communities are frequent occurrences in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region.
A few months ago, four soldiers were killed after hoodlums attacked army troops in Kwale, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State.
