President Tinubu to Attend Burial of Slain Soldiers in Delta

President Bola Tinubu is set to attend the burial of 17 military personnel who were killed in Okuama, Delta State, on March 14, 2024.

The event will take place at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja at 3 pm.

The soldiers were killed during a peace mission to resolve a land dispute between the Okuama and Okoloba communities in the Bomadi and Okuoma areas of Delta State.

The horrific incident has drawn condemnation from various quarters, including President Tinubu, the Nigerian Senate, and the Defence Headquarters.

The President described the attack as an attack on the nation and vowed that the perpetrators would not go unpunished.

In his capacity as the Commander-in-Chief, President Tinubu will be the Special Guest of Honour at the burial.

The slain military personnel included the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, two majors, one captain, and 13 soldiers of the battalion.

They were ambushed by irate youths during the communal clash over a land dispute, with reports indicating that some of the soldiers were beheaded and their bodies recovered from neighboring rivers.

In the wake of the incident, there have been concerns about possible military retaliation. However, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has assured residents of the community that military authorities have promised their safety.

The Governor met with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja and both leaders condemned the killing of the officers and soldiers, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining peace in the region.

As the nation mourns the loss of these brave soldiers, the burial ceremony in Abuja will serve as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve to protect their country.

The event will also highlight the need for peaceful resolutions to conflicts, particularly in the face of escalating tensions in the region.