The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, expressed sadness on Wednesday, stating that 21 children were left without parents and 10 women lost their husbands due to the recent killing of 17 military personnel in Delta State.
He mentioned that among the 10 widows, three of them are pregnant for four, five, and eight months respectively.
He expressed sorrow that the individuals they were supposed to protect were the ones responsible for their deaths.
Lagbaja made these remarks at the burial ceremony for the slain personnel at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
He explained, “The Okuama incident has increased the responsibility of the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian state – 10 widows (including three who are pregnant for four, five, and eight months), 21 orphans, and many other dependents such as parents.
“While offering condolences to the families of these brave soldiers, I assure them that the Nigerian Army and the citizens of this country will support them during this difficult time.
“We will do everything possible to help them and preserve the memories of their departed loved ones.”
He emphasized that the Army will not be discouraged by the incident, and pledged that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
He added, “I reassure the President and all Nigerians that the Nigerian Army remains devoted to its responsibilities and will not be deterred by setbacks like the one witnessed in the Okuama community.
“As directed by the President and Commander-In-Chief of our Armed Forces, the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, is dedicated to apprehending the culprits of the Okuama attack and recovering all belongings taken from the murdered troops.
“The Nigerian Army will continue to seek the support of all well-meaning Nigerians, particularly in the affected area, to ensure the swift and successful execution of our search and recovery operations.
