The Defence Headquarters stated on Monday that there will be controlled reactions and damaging consequences for the individuals who killed its personnel in Delta State.
At least 15 military personnel were killed in a conflict over a land dispute in Bomadi and Okuoma communities in Delta State.
The personnel from the 181 Amphibious Battalion were attacked and killed on Thursday while responding to a distress call.
The DHQ, through a statement by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, affirmed that it will follow its rules of engagement and human rights laws when dealing with the culprits.
The statement expressed, “The senseless and barbaric killings of these men is a tragedy. They were killed in a dehumanised and unspeakable manner. Accordingly, on behalf of the CDS, Gen CG Musa, the armed forces mourn the loss of these gallant troops who paid the supreme sacrifice for the nation. We console their families, colleagues, and loved ones over the tragic incident. They have died trying to restore peace in the nation.
“It is necessary to reiterate that both the Constitution and the Armed Forces Act entrusted the military with the responsibility of protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our nation. Accordingly, the armed forces consist of citizens from every part of the nation who have taken an oath of allegiance to put themselves in harm’s way to defend our great country.
“The military assures all that there will be controlled reactions and damaging consequences for the perpetrators of these terrible acts. Nevertheless, the armed forces, as a disciplined force that abides by rules of engagement, laws of armed conflict, and respect for human rights, will be influenced by these provisions. We would not be guided by emotions but by the rule of law.”
Buba also rejected reports of retaliatory attacks by troops in the community following the incident.
According to him, the community had been abandoned before the troops arrived on the scene.
Buba urged those spreading false information about the incident to stop disrespecting the deceased.
He called on the community to help the military in arresting the perpetrators of the severe crime.
Buba said, “It is against this background that the military rejects all claims that the military conducted retaliatory attacks in Okuama Community after the incident. The community was already deserted before troops arrived at the scene.
“Importantly, those spreading this misinformation, disinformation, and fake news about the military conducting reprisal attacks on the community following the incident should stop further disrespecting our fallen heroes.
“Rather, it is the duty of the community leaders, elders, and even the people of Delta State to assist in the investigation to identify the perpetrators of the terrible act so that they can be held accountable for their actions.
“Furthermore, it must be noted that the dispute between Okuama and Okoloba communities remains unresolved. It implies that there could be unpleasant activities not initiated by the military.
Buba, however, encouraged Nigerians not to share the disturbing videos of how the soldiers were killed.
“We ask the public not to let any videos of the incident where the personnel were killed become widely spread. Their families are still grieving, even though they have passed away while defending our country and its people.
“It would be a disgrace to the fallen heroes to allow such unpleasant videos of their death to become widely spread. Most importantly, as the military mourns, it remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and protection of citizens throughout the country,” he said.
