The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has pledged to bring to justice those responsible for the brutal killing of 17 military personnel in Okuama community, Delta State. The Chief of Defence Training and Operations, Maj.-Gen. Emeka Onumajuru, made this declaration during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.
On March 14, 17 Nigerian Army personnel were ambushed and killed by suspected militants while en route to mediate in a communal conflict in Okuama, located in Ughelli South Local Government Area. The attack was particularly heinous, with some soldiers beheaded and others mutilated.
In his address, Maj.-Gen. Onumajuru reassured the public that the military is relentless in its pursuit of those responsible. “I want to assure you that the killers of the 17 personnel will not go unpunished. We are actively hunting them down and will not rest until justice is served,” he said.
He likened the ongoing efforts to the prolonged hunt for Osama Bin Laden, emphasizing that, despite the time it might take, the military remains committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice. “No matter how long it takes, we will hunt them down,” Onumajuru vowed.
The DHQ is also focused on enhancing the protection of its troops. Onumajuru highlighted ongoing measures to ensure that soldiers are well-equipped to defend themselves in various situations. The aim is to maintain their operational effectiveness while safeguarding their security.
In addition to addressing the Okuama incident, Onumajuru provided updates on the Tundun Biri drone incident. He noted improvements in the military’s civilian harm mitigation program and the initiation of a settlement scheme for those affected by the conflict. The federal government has delivered relief materials, and the Kaduna State Government is constructing a 5.5-kilometer asphalt road to improve access to Tudun Biri and neighboring areas.
The military has established a permanent presence in Tudun Biri, enhancing security and supporting the community through medical outreach and boundary demarcation efforts. Onumajuru reaffirmed the military’s commitment to integrating civilian harm mitigation into its operations, ensuring a balanced approach to security and community support.
