Okuoma, an Ijaw community nestled in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, has descended into desolation following the tragic demise of 22 soldiers dispatched on a peacekeeping mission.
In the wake of the soldiers’ killing, Okuoma now resembles a ghost town, with residents, particularly young men, fleeing in dread of impending reprisals.
Among the fallen soldiers were five officers, including a commanding lieutenant-colonel, two majors, and a captain.
The Defence Headquarters recently confirmed the grim incident, prompting the Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa, to order an immediate arrest and investigation into the perpetrators.
Neighboring towns in Urhobo and Ijaw communities within Ughelli South and Bomadi local government areas find themselves gripped by a palpable tension, as military aircraft hover overhead, hinting at possible reconnaissance missions and the looming specter of military operations.
Reports suggest that the soldiers fell victim to an ambush orchestrated by local youths while attempting to mediate a violent clash between Okuoma and Okoloba communities.
Although no specific group has claimed responsibility, suspicions point towards militias orchestrating the assault on the troops from the 181 Amphibious Battalion of the Army.
The soldiers’ mission centered around securing the release of Mr. Anthony Aboh, a native of Okoloba abducted amidst the ongoing land dispute between the two communities.
Tragically, the soldiers encountered a fatal ambush on their journey back to base after fruitless negotiations with Okuoma community leaders.
According to a witness, chaos erupted as bullets rained from all directions, resulting in numerous casualties. The former honorable member from Okoloba, who had reported the abduction to the Joint Task Force (JTF), was among those slain.
Meanwhile, the commander and other officers were held captive and whisked away towards an unknown destination.
Shockingly, the lifeless body of Anthony Aboh was discovered floating in the nearby River Forcados, bound and blindfolded like other victims of this brutal ordeal.
Efforts to solicit comments from the Okuoma community have thus far been fruitless, further shrouding the incident in mystery and uncertainty.
In a formal statement, Brigadier Gen. Tukur Gusau, the acting Director of Defence Information, confirmed the dire situation, indicating that the Delta State Government had been apprised of the unfolding tragedy.
He said: “The troops of 181 Amphibious Batallion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, while on a peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi LGA of Delta State were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
“The unfortunate incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call after the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities, both in Delta State.
“The reinforcement team led by the commanding officer was also attacked, leading to the deaths of the commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers.
“The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime.
“The occurrence has been reported to the Delta State Government.
“However, the military remains focused and committed to its mandate of maintaining peace and security in the country.
“So far, a few arrests have been made while steps are being taken to unravel the motive behind the attack.”
