The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, expressed deep concern over the tragic incident in which 17 soldiers were killed in the Okuoma community of Delta State.
He assured the families of the deceased soldiers that the army is fully committed to supporting them during this difficult time.
The soldiers were attacked by residents of Okuoma while on a peacekeeping mission between Okuama and Okoloba communities.
The COAS condemned the brutal killings and promised to bring the perpetrators to justice while also ensuring the recovery of all missing weapons. It took 72 hours to recover the bodies of the slain soldiers, which were found mutilated.
General Lagbaja emphasized that the army stands with the families of the fallen soldiers, especially the widows and children left behind.
He mentioned that three of the widows are pregnant, further adding to the tragedy and that the loss of these soldiers has not only affected their families but also the Nigerian Army and the nation as a whole.
The COAS promised maximum support for the families, acknowledging the emotional and financial burden they now face.
He assured them that they would not be forgotten and that both the army and the country would stand by them during this challenging time.
