An intercessory group, Prayer & Support 4 Nigerian Armed Forces & Other Security Agencies has come forward to denounce the heinous killing and mutilation of Nigerian Army officers and men who were on a peace mission in the Okuama community of Bomadi local government in Delta state.
Ambassador Mary Abayomi Fatile, the Convener of the group, strongly criticized the act and issued a call to action to the Federal Government and all relevant stakeholders. She urged swift investigation into the brutal killing of the military personnel, emphasizing the importance of bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Fatile insisted that the government must not only identify and apprehend those responsible for the gruesome act but also ensure that they are held accountable for their actions under the full extent of the law. The group stands in solidarity with the families and colleagues of the fallen soldiers and demands justice for the senseless violence inflicted upon them.
The group strongly condemned the act saying that the troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion were on a peace mission to the Okuama community where they were surrounded by some youths and killed .
The group listed those affected to include the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion a Lieutenant Colonel, two majors, one captain and 12 soldiers .
Ambassador Fatile emphasized the universal desire for peace and freedom among nations and their citizens. She underscored that to achieve peace and tranquility globally, effective leadership is essential, particularly in nations where democracy prevails.
The Convener highlighted a troubling reality in Nigeria, noting that despite over two decades of democratic rule, peace and freedom remain elusive for its citizens. Since the advent of democracy in 1999, the nation has been plagued by ongoing challenges to these fundamental democratic principles.
She lamented that even during periods of military rule, dialogue was often employed to resolve issues, yet now, under democratic governance, members of the military are being brutally murdered in settlements within the country. This occurrence, she emphasized, is particularly alarming given that Nigeria is not at war.
Adding to the concern is the lack of response from leadership quarters, including the hierarchy of government, security agencies, and legislative executives. Despite the gravity of the situation, no meaningful action or statement has been issued in the four days since the incident.
The Convener’s question regarding the hope for peaceful coexistence among Nigerians is poignant and underscores the deep-seated apprehension resulting from such incidents. If the military, entrusted with maintaining security and stability, is not immune to such violence, it raises significant doubts about the prospects for peace and security for all Nigerians.
The group emphasized the importance of respecting and properly treating the personnel of the armed forces, recognizing them as fathers, uncles, and brothers who protect the nation. They highlighted the need for Nigerians to unite and collaborate as they did during the nation’s cup in Cote D’Ivoire to tackle the challenges of insecurity, kidnapping, and other vices.
Ambassador Abayomi Fatile further highlighted the significance of offering prayers and love to the armed forces during this period of insecurity, acknowledging the sacrifices they make by being away from their families for extended periods. He called upon the federal government, legislators, state governors, and traditional rulers to address the issues at hand and ensure that the perpetrators are appropriately punished to deter others.
Furthermore, Amb. Abayomi Fatile expressed condolences to the families of the deceased personnel and extended prayers for the souls of the fallen soldiers. He also conveyed sympathies to Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja and Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Gwabin Musa, while fervently hoping that such tragic events do not reoccur in the future.
