Senate President Godswill Akpabio suggested on Tuesday that the perpetrators behind the tragic killing of soldiers in Delta State could potentially be foreigners.
Last Thursday, a group of armed assailants launched a deadly attack, resulting in the deaths of 15 Nigerian Army personnel who were on a peacekeeping mission in the Okuama Community of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State.
During a parliamentary session on Tuesday, Akpabio shared his perspective, stating, “We are not at war. I don’t think they are from the Niger Delta. They may be mercenaries.”
In response to the incident, the Senate initiated a probe into the killings. The Committee on Defence, Army, Navy, and Air Force was tasked with collaborating with military authorities to gather further details regarding the circumstances surrounding what was described as “a dastardly act.”
The Senate called upon the Federal Government to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they face justice. Additionally, a moment of silence was observed in honor of the fallen soldiers.
Recognizing the need to prevent the military from being embroiled in civil matters, the Senate advocated for the recruitment of more police personnel.
However, the Senate declined to observe a moment of silence or extend condolences to the families of innocent civilians who were also killed during the incident, citing uncertainty regarding their numbers.
While a request for relief materials for the affected community by the National Emergency Management Agency was rejected, the Senate did pass a resolution proposed by Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau, and seconded by Senator Tony Nwoye, for the immediate compensation of the families of the deceased soldiers.
