The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army who were brutally killed in Okuama Community in Delta on March 14.
During the burial ceremony of the 17 personnel at the National Cemetery in Abuja, Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja revealed the tragic aftermath of the incident, stating that the fallen soldiers left behind 10 widows, three of whom are pregnant, and 21 orphans.
Highlighting the magnitude of the tragedy, Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja underscored the emotional and practical challenges faced by the families of the deceased soldiers. He called for urgent support from government bodies and well-meaning individuals to assist the bereaved families during this difficult time.
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Expressing his anguish, Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja emphasized the solemn responsibility of putting soldiers in harm’s way, acknowledging the sacrifices made by these brave men and women in service to their country. He condemned the heinous act that led to the deaths of the soldiers, describing it as highly demoralizing and barbaric.
Assuring the nation of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to its constitutional responsibilities, Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja vowed to pursue justice for the slain soldiers and their families. He pledged to spare no effort in bringing the perpetrators of the Okuama massacre to book and recovering all stolen property belonging to the murdered troops.
Echoing Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja’s sentiments, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, paid tribute to the fallen heroes for their selflessness and unwavering dedication to duty. He assured the families of the deceased officers of the nation’s support and vowed to honor their memory by continuing the fight against those who threaten the peace and security of the nation.
The burial ceremony was attended by dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and governors of Delta, Bayelsa, Kano, Kogi, and Imo states.
In recognition of their sacrifice, President Bola Tinubu announced the award of posthumous national honors to the slain soldiers, as well as providing houses and scholarships for their children, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to honoring their memory and supporting their families in their time of need
