The solemn atmosphere at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja was palpable as the bodies of 17 gallant military personnel, tragically slain in the line of duty, arrived for burial. These brave souls had met their untimely demise on March 14, 2024, in the Okuama village of the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, while on a peace mission to resolve a communal land dispute between Okuama and Okoloba communities.
The gruesome nature of their deaths, at the hands of vicious residents of the riverine village, had shocked the nation. The soldiers had responded to a distress call, only to be met with violence that claimed their lives in a barbaric manner. The Defence Headquarters later confirmed the identities of the fallen, including the Commanding Officer of 181 Amphibious Battalion, two majors, one captain, and 12 other personnel.
In attendance at the burial were high-ranking military officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and Chief of Army Staff, Lt-General Taoreed Lagbaja, among others. Also present were dignitaries such as Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and governors from Delta, Bayelsa, Kogi, Kaduna, and Kano states.
President Bola Tinubu, who had pledged to attend the solemn event, was awaited, as confirmed by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga. Tinubu had described the attack as an assault on the nation and vowed to ensure the perpetrators faced justice.
As the nation mourned the loss of these brave soldiers, calls for justice echoed across the country. The Senate, alongside Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and civil society organizations, condemned the heinous act and demanded swift action to apprehend and prosecute those responsible.
