Soldiers deployed to Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have  continued their operation in the town following last weekend’s killing of several military men on a rescue mission to the riverine community.

Community sources claim that the military is currently occupying Okuama and that several houses have either been razed or demolished.

Meanwhile, in response to the attack, the Nigerian military deployed armoured vehicles to Bomadi, headquarters of Bomadi Government Council. The deployment comes after the killing of military personnel on a peace and rescue mission in Okuama. Yesterday, military personnel and no fewer than three armoured vehicles were spotted heading towards the creeks, possibly in pursuit of the perpetrators.

/President Bola Tinubu has ordered the military high command to apprehend those responsible for the attack.

Mr. Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election has condemned the killing as barbaric and unacceptable. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State also denounced the incident, describing it as despicable and alien to the culture of Deltans. The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by Ijaw leader Chief Edwin Clark, insisted on a thorough investigation into the incident.

Senator Ede Dafinone called for an end to the violence in Okuama for the sake of humanity. Additionally, the Urhobo Media Practitioners Advocacy Group (UMPAG) demanded an independent investigation into the killings and the arrest of the culprits.

The situation escalated last week when soldiers from the 222 battalion of the military Joint Task Force (JTF), Bomadi Division, were ambushed and killed during a rescue mission to release a hostage. The perpetrators fled the community during the military’s remobilization and subsequent reprisal attacks. The military is now conducting a manhunt in neighboring communities.

President Bola Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice. Governor Oborevwori emphasized the need to uphold peace and security in Delta State and promised to ensure the culprits face the full wrath of the law.

As tensions remain high in Okuama and neighboring areas, the demand for justice and peace continues to grow among residents and political figures alike. The aftermath of this tragic event underscores the ongoing challenges faced by military personnel in their line of duty and highlights the imperative of ensuring security in the region.