By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Delta : Military personnel killed in Delta communal clash – DHQ
The
Defence Headquarters revealed that 15 military personnel, including two Majors, one Captain, and 12 soldiers, lost their lives during a communal clash in Delta State.
The tragic incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call amid a clash between Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State.
Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, disclosed that the troops, who were on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi LGA, were attacked by some community youths.
Gusau stated, “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, Gen. Christopher Musa, has ordered a thorough investigation into the matter, with arrests already made in connection with the incident.
While maintaining focus on their mandate of maintaining peace and security in the country, the military assured that steps are being taken to uncover the motive behind the attack.
The clash is not an isolated incident, as in January 2024, six individuals were killed and many others injured in a shootout stemming from a land dispute between the same communities.
In 2023, similar tensions arose over a land and fishing lake between the two communities.
Delta, communal clash