Nigerian Army Commander, Two Majors, Captain, 12 Soldiers Killed By Community Youths In Delta

Sixteen soldiers were killed during a mission to halt clashes between two communities in Nigeria’s southern state of Delta, an army spokesman said Saturday.

The attack in the oil-rich region happened in the Bomadi council area Thursday when the soldiers, deployed to keep the peace, “were surrounded by some community youths and killed,” Defense Headquarters spokesman Brigadier General Tukur Gusau said in a statement.

The Acting Director, Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, who made this known in a statement on Saturday said that the military officers were killed on Thursday while on a peace mission to Okuama community in Bomadi Local Government Area of the State. 

They were surrounded and killed by some youths of the community, the military noted. 

Gusau said that “The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State while on peace mission to Okuama community in Bomadi LGA of Delta State were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, 14 March, 2024. 

“The unfortunate incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call after the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities both in Delta State. 

“The reinforcement team led by the Commanding officer was also attacked, leading to the death of the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain and 12 Soldiers. 

“The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime. The occurrence has been reported to the Delta State Govt.  

“However, the military remains focused and committed to its mandate of maintaining peace and security in the country. So far, a few arrests have been made  while steps in place to unravel the motive behind the attack.”