DHQ Releases Situation Report of 16 Soldiers Killed in Delta, Human Rights Lawyer Reacts

DHQ Releases Situation Report of 16 Soldiers Killed in Delta, Human Rights Lawyer Reacts

  • Human Rights Advocate Deji Adeyanju expressed his condolences to the Nigerian Army after 16 soldiers were tragically killed in Delta State
  • The Army reported that the soldiers were on a peacekeeping mission in the Okuoma community when they were ambushed and killed by local youths on Thursday, March 14, 2024
  • Adeyanju urged authorities to investigate and prosecute those responsible for this heinous act thoroughly

Legit.ng journalist Segun Adeyemi has over 9 years of experience covering political events, civil societies, courts, and metro

FCT, Abuja - Sixteen Nigerian soldiers lost their lives during a mission aimed at quelling disputes between two communities in the southern Delta state, according to a military spokesperson.

The soldiers, belonging to the 181 Amphibious Battalion stationed in the Bomadi area, were involved in addressing the conflict within the Okuoma community when the tragic incident occurred on Thursday, March 14, as conveyed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau in a statement made available to Legit.ng on Saturday, March 16.

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At least 16 soldiers have been killed in a peace-keeping mission in Delta state
The chief of defence staff, CDS Musa, has ordered an immediate investigation. Photo Credit: DHQ
Source: Facebook

He said:

“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.”

According to the statement, the chief of defence has ordered an urgent inquiry and the apprehension of individuals implicated.

He added:

“So far, a few arrests have been made while steps [are] in place to unravel the motive behind the attack.”

In numerous Delta state neighbourhoods, conflicts, occasionally resulting in fatalities, arise over land disputes or demands for compensation due to oil spillages from energy corporations.

Human rights lawyer condemns killing of military personnel

Meanwhile, human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has strongly condemned the tragic death of 16 soldiers during a peacekeeping operation in Delta state, Nigeria.

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He urged law enforcement to apprehend the perpetrators swiftly.

Adeyanju extended his condolences to the Nigerian army and the families of the fallen soldiers, acknowledging their sacrifice in the line of duty.

In a chat with Legit.ng, Adeyanju said:

"I sympathise with the military authorities for this huge loss. It is indeed a huge loss, considering that the military is already overstretched due to various operations across the country.
"The military authorities will do well to investigate this heinous crime and bring the perpetrators to the book. We can't keep losing our gallant men to non-state actors."

Kaduna, Borno Abduction: Terrorists told to release hostages in spirit of Ramadan

Meanwhile, concerned citizens in Nigeria have made a plea to bandits to free the schoolchildren taken in Kaduna and the women abducted in Borno.

The Kalthum Foundation for Peace (KFP) brought this appeal to the president in Abuja on Friday, March 15.

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Terrorists launch fresh attack in Kaduna community

They implored the bandits to show compassion and let go of the captives, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Segun Adeyemi avatar

Segun Adeyemi (Current Affairs and Politics Editor) Segun Adeyemi is a journalist with over 9 years of experience as an active field reporter, editor, and editorial manager. He has had stints with Daily Trust newspaper, Daily Nigerian, and News Digest. He currently works as an editor for Legit.ng's current affairs and politics desk. He holds a degree in Mass Communication (Adekunle Ajasin University). He is a certified digital reporter by Reuters, AFP and the co-convener of the annual campus journalism awards. Email: segun.adeyemi@corp.legit.ng.