President Tinubu Grants ‘Full Authority’ To Military To Apprehend Soldiers’ Killings

President Bola Tinubu gave "full authority" to the Nigerian military to bring to justice anybody found to have been responsible for the deadly attack on armed forces in Delta state that killed 12 soldiers and four army officers last week.

Tinubu took to his X handle, formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday to reveal that the military has been given full authority after learning about the unprovoked killing of brave military personnel during a rescue mission in Okuama Community, located in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The president mentioned that the incident occurred on March 14, when the troops, responding to a crisis between Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State, were ambushed. In the attack, a commanding officer, two majors, one captain and 12 soldiers sadly lost their lives.

"As the Commander-in-Chief, I join all well-meaning Nigerians and the men and women of our armed forces to mourn and express my profound grief over the needless death of our gallant soldiers," Tinubu wrote.

"I extend my profound condolences to the families of these fallen soldiers, their colleagues, and their loved ones. The military high command is already responding to this incident. The cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime will not go unpunished," he added.

Tinubu highlighted that this incident demonstrates the dangers faced by servicemen and women in the line of duty, saluting them for their heroism, courage and uncommon grit and patriotism.

It's crucial to always remember and pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives to safeguard our country's safety, strength, and unity. Everyone who died in Okuama, now stands among the esteemed individuals who wholeheartedly served Nigeria with honor, the president mentioned.

"Members of our armed forces are at the heart and core of our nationhood. Any attack on them is a direct attack on our nation. We will not accept this wicked act," he noted, adding that "the Defense Headquarters and Chief of Defense Staff have been granted full authority to bring to justice anybody found to have been responsible for this unconscionable crime against the Nigerian people."

The president noted that his government will not relent until Nigeria achieves peace and tranquillity in every part of the country.

Last week, the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Delta State uncovered an illegal arms factory in Onicha Olona community, located in Delta State. Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu pointed out that these illegal gun factories contribute to insecurity in the country.