The Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom of Delta State, HRM Clement Ikolo, has said the 16 soldiers killed came to protect his people from those who wanted to invade their land.
While on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi community in Bomadi local government in Delta State, troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, were allegedly attacked by community youths who killed 16 soldiers on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
It was learnt that the incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call over a communal clash between Okuama and Okoloba communities.
Also attacked was the reinforcement team led by the Commanding Officer leading to the death of the Commanding Officer, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 Soldiers.
Reacting to the sad incident, the Monarch said it is very sad times for their kingdom in Delta State and for Nigeria generally.
“The military men are the people who are there to protect our nation. They should be held in high esteem.
“They (slain soldiers) were here to protect us from people who wanted to invade our land and commit heinous crimes.
“It is very sad these same people who they came to protect and also part of us were the ones with these kind of heinous acts (that) carried out and killed (them) in the process. It is very sad. I totally condemn it.
He stated that the act is unacceptable and that one of the soldiers killed was somebody who put in all he could at the time of his presentation of staff of office in November last year.
“I’m short of words. May their souls…and the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God receive peace.”
In a statement on Sunday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave the Nigerian military full authority to bring those behind the Thursday killing of 12 soldiers and four army officers to justice.
Tinubu vowed that his government will not rest until peace and tranquillity is achieved in every part of the country.
He added that The incident, once again, demonstrates the dangers faced by servicemen and women in the line of duty.
