During the burial ceremony, sorrowful families of deceased soldiers call for justice

A sad and somber atmosphere surrounded the military cemetery in Abuja yesterday. It was a day of mourning as 17 soldiers, who lost their lives in Okuama, Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, were laid to rest. Families and loved ones wept and expressed their pain as they said goodbye to their fallen heroes.

The burial was a time of sorrow, with families of the soldiers sharing their heartbreak over the tragic loss of their loved ones. President Bola Tinubu, present at the ceremony, called upon the chiefs and elders of Okuama to assist the military in finding those responsible for the brutal attack on the soldiers who were on a peace mission. He assured that justice would be served for the culprits.

Retired Warrant Officer Zakari Aliu, the father of late Captain Usman Zakari, shared his grief, saying, “My son was a good and obedient son. He joined the military in 2015 and was looking forward to becoming a father as his wife was pregnant.” He expressed his trust in the government to handle the situation and find the perpetrators.

Mrs. Theresa Obi, the mother of Major Daniel Obi, tearfully remembered her son, saying, “Major Obi was a wonderful son and a good man. He left behind a wife and four children.” She thanked the government for their support and left the fate of the killers to God.

Lance Corporal Abdul Ibrahim’s elder brother also spoke, emphasizing that nothing could replace the loss of his brother who died serving the country. He called for justice for the killers and praised the President’s promises to support the families.

Ahmed Abutu, a relative from Kogi State, expressed pride that his relative died serving the nation but also demanded justice for the perpetrators. He highlighted the loss to the family, describing the fallen soldier as a peaceful and caring person.

Mrs. Hanatu Hamman, mother of Late Lance Corporal Peter Hamman, shared her pain, mentioning her son’s plans for marriage before his untimely death. She relied on her faith in God to see her through this difficult time, now that her son was no longer there to support her.

President Tinubu, addressing the gathering, reiterated the government’s commitment to bringing the killers to justice. He praised the armed forces for their bravery and sacrifice, assuring them of support and benefits for their families. Posthumous honors were awarded to the fallen soldiers, recognizing their sacrifice for the nation.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, revealed the devastating impact of the soldiers’ deaths, with 10 widows, three of whom were pregnant, and 21 orphans left behind. He promised support for the families and acknowledged the difficulty of sending soldiers into dangerous situations, knowing they might not return.

The soldiers who lost their lives were honored with posthumous national awards. The President and the Chief of Army Staff paid tribute to these brave men, acknowledging their service and sacrifice for the nation. The fallen soldiers will be remembered as heroes who answered the call of duty and made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.