Okuama the Delta Community where 16 soldiers were killed on Thursday was Sunday morning smoldering in smoke after it was razed by unknown persons in a suspected reprisal attack.
Channels TV reports showed houses in the riverine communities in the Bomadi Local government area of Delta State burnt down and destroyed in the dawn attack. Community members had evacuated the villages in fear after 16 soldiers including two Majors and one Captain were killed in an ambushed by yet to identified assailants. The soldiers were on a mission to restore peace between warring Okuama and Okoloba.
Army spokesperson Brigadier- General Tukur Gusau said some suspects have been arrested over the killing of the soldiers
“The military, however, 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 have been taken to unravel the motive behind the attack,’’ he said.
He was however, silent on the burning of the Okuama community. During the regime of President Olusegun Obasanjo the army invaded Odi community in Delta State where nine soldiers were also ambushed and killed.
Meanwhile Delta State governor Sheriff Oborevwori has bemoaned the killing of the soldiers who were on peace mission. Speaking through his media adviser Festus Ahon, the governor said those behind the killings must be brought to book.
“This incident is despicable and not in sync with the culture and tradition of Deltans. It runs contrary to the values and path of peace that the State Government is promoting as I have always emphasized in our MORE agenda to enhance peace and security.
“On behalf of the Government and good people of Delta State, I wish to condole, in particular, the families of the killed gallant officers and soldiers, the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria in general, over this sad occurrence.
“The State Government shall take all measures necessary to fish out all those behind this dastardly act and ensure they are made to face the full wrath of the law.
“Delta State is governed within the tenets of the rule of law and human decency. Acts such as this incident cannot and will not be tolerated.
“Meanwhile, all citizens and residents of the state are enjoined to remain law- abiding and the State Government shall continue to take all measures to protect lives and property in Delta State.”
