A disclosure from the Nigerian military indicates the possibility of a bounty being placed on individuals linked to the tragic killing of 17 soldiers in the Okuama community of Delta State.
Efforts have been intensified by the military to track down the eight suspects declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters for their alleged involvement in the incident.
During a briefing in Abuja, the military unveiled the list of wanted persons on Thursday.
On March 14, 2024, a group of officers and soldiers from the 181 Amphibious Battalion fell victim to an ambush by agitated youths while on a peacekeeping mission in Okuama community.
The conflict between the Okuama and Okoloba communities dates back to 2023, revolving around a persistent land dispute.
The unfortunate mission in Okuama resulted in the loss of 17 military personnel, including four officers and 13 soldiers.
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized his commitment to tracking down the perpetrators during a burial service for the fallen soldiers in Abuja. He vowed that justice would be served for those responsible.
Musa’s stance was firm as he addressed the audience, promising to uphold peace and security across the nation by ensuring the offenders face the consequences of their actions.
At the funeral, the families of the deceased soldiers mourned their loss, expressing grief and identifying the impact on their lives.
The ongoing operation led the military to search the creeks and surrounding areas in pursuit of the suspects.
Subsequently, the identities of the wanted individuals were disclosed to journalists in Abuja on Thursday.
Among the list are individuals like Prof. Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriri, Clement Ikolo Oghenerukeywe, Reuben Baru, and Igoli Ebi.
One of the notable figures sought is Akevwru Daniel Omotegbono, known as Amagbein, believed to be a key figure in the turmoil. Despite an initial sighting in Igbomoturu community, he evaded capture by going underground.
Additionally, Atata Malaw David and Sinclair Oliki, suspected associates of the Amagbein gang, are part of the wanted group.
Reports suggest that Igoli Ebi, supposedly the mother of one suspect, and Reuben Baru, a young man whose video shed light on the soldiers’ demise, are included.
Oghenerukevwe, the Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, is another target on the list. Despite his status as a traditional ruler, he is being sought in connection with the Okuama incident.
Major General Buba Edward, the Director of Defence Media Operations, assured that relentless efforts would be made to apprehend all individuals marked as wanted.
In the pursuit of justice, the military spokesperson suggested the possibility of offering rewards for reliable information leading to the capture of the prime suspects, demonstrating a firm resolve to pursue the case to its conclusion.
Prior to the tragedy, the military engaged in various developmental initiatives within Delta State, which aimed to foster goodwill and community support.
Despite the setbacks, the military reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the perpetrators until they are brought to justice in accordance with Nigerian law.
The public is urged to collaborate with security agencies by providing any relevant information that could aid in the arrest of the suspects.
These developments unfolded following the burial of the 17 soldiers at the National Cemetery in Abuja, where President Bola Tinubu, along with governors and dignitaries, attended the ceremony.
At the event, Tinubu pledged support for the affected families, including offering scholarships for the children of the deceased soldiers, emphasizing the pursuit of justice for the fallen heroes.
Monarch Distances Himself from Accusations
Meanwhile, His Majesty Clement Oghenerukevwe Ikolo, Urhukpe 1, the newly installed Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, refuted his involvement in the tragic events, addressing the allegations against him.
In a video statement on Thursday, Ikolo expressed shock at being implicated and asserted his innocence, highlighting his stance against violence and loss of life.
From an undisclosed location, the monarch clarified that the government was well-informed about his stance and emphasized his commitment to peace and non-violence.
He reiterated his disbelief in the accusations, maintaining that his values as a human and a Christian align with peace and respect for life.
Emphasizing the turbulent circumstances surrounding his reign, Ikolo underscored his unwavering dedication to upholding peace and harmony within his community.
He stated, “I have no association with such heinous acts and do not endorse any form of violence. It is surprising and disheartening to see myself listed among wanted persons. My commitment remains to the well-being and safety of my community.”
Having mentioned that killing goes against his principles as a human and his beliefs as a Catholic, the monarch emphasized the necessity for the government to thoroughly investigate the incident.
In relation to the statement made by Professor Authur of Delta State University concerning the killing, it was revealed that the lecturer had gone into hiding. Attempts to contact the institution’s Public Relations Officer, NAD Abimbola, were unsuccessful as calls and messages remained unanswered at the time of reporting.
Speaking on the matter, the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Andy Eguyanga, mentioned that the university is cooperating with the authorities but refrained from further comments.
Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (retd.), clarified that the suspects were not from his territory in response to queries on the issue.
Earlier, the monarch had called for a judicial panel to investigate the root causes of the crisis during a meeting with Governor Sheriff Oborevweri and other traditional leaders.
Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, highlighted that the destructive act in the Okuama community is not a viable solution and urged the military to exercise restraint.
He proposed setting up a comprehensive investigation panel by the Federal Government to identify and bring the instigators of the violence to justice, followed by a collaborative effort with the state government to restore and support the affected communities.
Similarly, lawmaker Ejiroghene Waive emphasized the need for professionalism from the Nigerian military in apprehending the perpetrators without further loss of innocent lives. He stressed the importance of halting the destruction to facilitate an impartial and effective investigation leading to the prosecution of those responsible.