President Bola Tinubu has authorized the Defence Headquarters and Chief of Defence Staff to take decisive action in bringing to justice those responsible for the killing of Nigerian soldiers in Delta State.
In a statement he signed, the President warns that his government will not relent until it achieves peace and tranquillity in every part of Nigeria.
Explaining that the killing of the soldiers was unprovoked, President Tinubu says the affected personnel were responding to a crisis between Okuama and Okoloba communities in the state when they were ambushed.
The President stresses that members of the armed forces are at the heart and the core of nationhood., warning that any attack on them is a direct attack on the nation, which will not be accepted.
While recognising their heroism, courage, uncommon grit, and patriotism, the President says the incident, once again, demonstrates the dangers faced by servicemen and women in the line of duty.
He says as a nation, citizens must constantly remember and honour those who have paid the ultimate price to keep the country safe, strong, and united, adding that the officers and men who died in the Okuama community have joined the pantheon of great men and women who gave their all, with honour, in the service of Nigeria.
In his capacity as the Commander-in-Chief, the President joins well-meaning Nigerians and the men and women of the armed forces to mourn, while expressing his grief over the needless death of the gallant soldiers.
He further extends his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, their colleagues, and their loved ones.
The slain personnel were a Commanding Officer, two Majors, one Captain and twelve soldiers, including one civilian.
Bello Wakili
