Expressing deep regret, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, revealed that the recent killing of 17 military personnel in Delta State has left 21 children orphaned and 10 women widowed.
Among the widows, three are currently four, five, and eight months pregnant, adding to the tragedy of the situation.
Lagbaja highlighted the unfortunate irony that those responsible for the deaths are the very individuals the soldiers had sworn to protect.
His remarks were made during the burial ceremony held for the fallen soldiers at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
He stated, “The Okuama incident has added to the burden of the Nigerian Army and the nation at large – with 10 widows (including three who are currently four, five, and eight months pregnant), 21 orphans, and numerous other dependents including parents.
“In offering condolences to the families of these brave soldiers, I want to assure them that both the Nigerian Army and the citizens of our country stand with them during this difficult time.
“We are committed to extending our full support and preserving the legacies of their fallen heroes.”
Lagbaja affirmed that this tragic event will not hinder the Army’s operations and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice.
He emphasized, “I want to reassure the President and all Nigerians that the Nigerian Army remains steadfast in upholding its constitutional duties and will not be deterred by setbacks like the one witnessed in Okuama.
“On the directive of the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, is resolute in ensuring the culprits behind the Okuama attack face justice and that all belongings belonging to the deceased troops are recovered.
“We seek the support and collaboration of all well-meaning individuals, especially those in the affected region, to facilitate the swift and successful execution of our search and recovery efforts.”