BREAKING: Akpabio Makes Fresh Claims Over Killings of 16 Soldiers in Delta

• Senate President Godswill Akpabio suggested that the perpetrators behind the tragic killing of soldiers in the Okuama community in Bomadi LGA of Delta State might be mercenaries
• The attack occurred on March 14, resulting in the deaths of 17 Nigerian army personnel who were on a peacekeeping mission in the area
• Akpabio emphasised during a debate on merged motions that Nigeria is not currently engaged in a war and called for efforts to restore peace in the affected community

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

FCT, Abuja - Senate President Godswill Akpabio suggested on Tuesday, March 19, that the perpetrators behind the recent killing of soldiers in Delta State might be foreigners.

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The attack occurred on Thursday, March 14, when armed individuals ambushed and fatally wounded 15 Nigerian Army personnel during a peacekeeping mission to Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area.

Akpabio shared his perspective during a discussion on two combined motions presented by Senators Abdulaziz Yar’AduaYar’Adua from Katsina Central, APC, and Edeh Dafinone from Delta Central, APC.

He speculated that those responsible for the soldiers’ deaths could potentially be mercenaries.

As quoted by Punch, he said:

“We are not at war. I don’t think they are from the Niger Delta. They may be mercenaries.”

The Senate has initiated an investigation into the recent killings, directing its Committee on Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force to collaborate with military authorities to uncover the reasons behind what it termed a "cowardly act."

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Senate demands FG capture assailants

Additionally, it urged the Federal Government to capture and prosecute those responsible for the violence while observing a moment of silence for the victims.

Furthermore, the Senate emphasised the importance of expanding the police force to prevent the military from becoming involved in civilian affairs.

The Senate declined to honour a request for a moment of silence or condolences to the families of civilians who lost their lives, citing uncertainty about the exact number of casualties.

Additionally, they turned down a plea for relief supplies for the affected community from the National Emergency Management Agency.

However, they agreed to provide immediate compensation to the families of slain soldiers, as proposed by Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau and seconded by Senator Tony Nwoye.

Gov Oborevwori vows to decimate killers of 16 soldiers in Delta

Meanwhile, the Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has condemned the unfortunate fatalities of officers and soldiers linked to the 181 Amphibious Battalion in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State.

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Killing of soldiers: Nigerian Army, Delta community trade words over reprisal attacks as troops arrest 20

As stated by the Defence Headquarters, 15 military personnel met their demise during a communal altercation in Delta State.

These individuals are said to have lost their lives while responding to a distress signal amid the confrontation between Okuama and Okoloba communities on Thursday.

Source: Legit.ng