Sodeinde QuadriDuring a somber ceremony at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, expressed deep regret over the recent tragedy that befell 17 military personnel in Delta State, resulting in 21 children orphaned and 10 women widowed.
Lagbaja revealed that among the widows, three were in the midst of pregnancy, their grief compounded by the impending responsibility of motherhood. He emphasized the profound sadness that those responsible for the soldiers’ deaths were individuals sworn to protect them.
Addressing the assembled mourners, Lagbaja solemnly stated, โThe Okuama killing has added to the care of the Nigerian Army and, by extension, the Nigeria state โ 10 widows (three of whom are four, five, and eight months pregnant), 21 orphans, and many other dependents which include parents.”
Offering condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, Lagbaja assured them of the unwavering support of the Nigerian Army and the nation at large. He pledged, โWe shall do all within our power to provide succour to them and preserve the memories of their departed loved ones.โ
Undeterred by the tragedy, Lagbaja affirmed the Army’s commitment to its duties and promised that those responsible for the heinous act would face justice. He asserted, โI assure Mr. President and all Nigerians that the Nigerian Army remains committed to its constitutional responsibilities and will not be deterred by setbacks such as witnessed in the Okuama community.”
In accordance with the directives of the President and Commander-In-Chief, the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, vowed to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the belongings of the slain troops. Lagbaja concluded with a plea for the cooperation of all Nigerians, especially those in the affected area, to aid in the swift and successful resolution of the ongoing operations.
