Members of #Prayer & Support 4 the Nigerian Armed Forces & other security agencies, yesterday, condemned the gruesome killing and mutilation of the bodies of some officers and men of the Nigerian Army on a peace mission at Okuama community in Bomadi Local Council of Delta State.

Convener of the group, Ambassador Mary Fatile, in a statement condemned the act, and called on the Federal Government and all necessary stakeholders to look into the gruesome killing of military personnel.

She also called on the government to fish out the killers and ensure that they face the wrath of the law.

According to her, it is condemnable that the troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion on a peace mission to the Okuama community were surrounded and killed.

The group listed those affected as the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, a Lt Colonel, two majors, one captain and 12 soldiers.

Ambassador Fatile emphasised the universal desire for peace and freedom among nations and their citizens.

She emphasised that to achieve peace and tranquility globally, effective leadership is essential, particularly in nations where democracy prevails.

The convener noted that despite over two decades of democratic rule, peace and freedom have remained elusive for its citizens.
“Since the advent of democracy in 1999, the nation has been plagued by ongoing challenges to these fundamental democratic principles.

“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 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.’’ curity 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 question regarding the hope for peaceful coexistence among Nigerians is poignant and underscores the deep-seated apprehension resulting from such incidents,” she lamented.

According to her, 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.

They emphasised the importance of respecting and properly treating the personnel of the armed forces, recognising them as fathers, uncles, and brothers who protect the nation.

It also 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.

Fatile emphasised 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.

She 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.

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.