Delta State’s Okuama community
It is with profound sadness that I report on the devastating events that unfolded in Delta State last week. According to confirmation from the Nigerian Army, 16 soldiers, including high-ranking officers, lost their lives while conducting a routine peacekeeping mission between the warring villages of Okuama and Okoloba.
The troops from the 181st Amphibious Battalion were responding to calls for assistance regarding an alleged kidnapping related to ongoing land disputes. They were tragically ambushed and viciously attacked by an as-yet-unidentified group of attackers upon reaching the Okuama community.
Among the lives cut short in this senseless act of violence were those of Lieutenant Colonel Abdullahi Bako, Majors Joel Ovie and Chuks Aneke, and Captain Daniel Adebayo. These men dedicated their careers to protecting citizens, yet they were met with unwarranted deadly force while attempting mediation. The grief enveloping both the military and civilian communities is unimaginable.
In a necessary show of strength, the Army has deployed additional forces under GOC 6 Division to apprehend perpetrators. Some arrests have reportedly been made already. However, it is imperative that due process be followed to avoid further escalation or rights violations.
As their senator, I knew and respected these fallen soldiers. They will be remembered for laying down their lives in service of Delta State. No amount of retaliation can bring them back or heal the scars of this dark day. Only through non-violent means and the rule of law can true justice be achieved.
Governor Oborevwori has condemned this crime against humanity, pledging full cooperation with Army investigations. I support warranted action within legal boundaries. However, the ultimate goal must remain protecting all civilians through peaceful, inclusive solutions to long-simmering conflicts.
In the coming days, I will engage stakeholders across communities and authorities and appeal for restraint, cooperation, and frank dialog. It is my hope that together, through compassion and understanding, we can honor our protectors’ memory by strengthening bonds of fellowship. Our shared humanity is more profound than any differences.
