Following the gruesome killing of sixteen soldiers in Okuama community of Delta state, residents fearing retaliation have fled their homes.
The tragic incident has sparked outrage and a large-scale manhunt by the Nigerian Army.
The 181 Amphibious Battalion soldiers under the command of Major General Jamal Abdussalam, were reportedly ambushed on Thursday, March 14th, while responding to a distress call on a communal crisis between the Okuama community and neighboring Okoloba.
The bodies of the slain soldiers, including the commanding officer, two majors, and twelve others, were discovered scattered along the NDDC jetty and riverbanks early Saturday. The scene reportedly displayed extreme brutality, with some bodies found beheaded and mutilated.
Local residents, fearing possible retaliation from the military, have fled Okuama to seek refuge in Ughelli and other areas, the Explainer learned.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army, led by Major General Abdussalam, has launched a widespread search operation to apprehend the perpetrators. Several arrests have already been confirmed.
The Director of Defence Information (DDI), Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, issued a statement on Saturday confirming the incident and expressing condolences to the families of the deceased. The statement further highlighted that a thorough investigation has been ordered by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa.
“The CDS, General Musa, has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime,” the statement said.
The Delta State government has also been notified of the tragic event.
The cause of the communal clash and the motive behind the killings of the soldiers remain unclear. Further investigation is expected to shed light on these aspects, according to Defence Headquarters.
