President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned the attack on military officers in Delta State that occurred on Thursday, vowing that those responsible for the killing of army personnel will face justice.
In his reaction to the incident, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow and vowed that the perpetrators of the attack in Delta State would not escape punishment.
Earlier reports indicated that a group of Nigerian army personnel, including a lieutenant colonel, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers, were killed by youths during a peace mission at Okuoma, Bomadi LGA of Delta State.
In a statement released on Sunday and signed by the president, he declared that the chief of defence staff has been given full authority to ensure that anyone found guilty of the “unconscionable crime” faces justice.
Describing the killing of the army personnel as a wicked act, President Tinubu emphasized that any attack on them is a direct assault on the nation.
He stated, “As the Commander-in-Chief, I join all well-meaning Nigerians and the men and women of our armed forces to mourn and express my profound grief over the needless death of our gallant soldiers.”
“I extend my profound condolences to the families of these fallen soldiers, their colleagues, and their loved ones. The military high command is already responding to this incident. The cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime will not go unpunished.”
“This incident, once again, demonstrates the dangers faced by our servicemen and women in the line of duty. I salute their heroism, courage, and uncommon grit and patriotism.”
“As a nation, we must constantly remember and honor all those who have paid the ultimate price to keep our country safe, strong, and united. The officers and men who died in Okuama community have joined the pantheon of great men and women who gave their all, with honor, in the service of our fatherland.”
“Members of our armed forces are at the heart and the core of our nationhood. Any attack on them is a direct attack on our nation. We will not accept this wicked act.”
“The Defence Headquarters and Chief of Defence Staff have been granted full authority to bring to justice anybody found to have been responsible for this unconscionable crime against the Nigerian people. My government will not relent until we achieve peace and tranquillity in every part of Nigeria.