Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid tribute on Sunday to 16 soldiers who died during a mediation mission between two warring communities in the oil-producing Delta state.
The president vowed to bring those responsible to justice, calling the attack a “heinous crime” and a “direct attack on our nation.”
Troops Caught in the Middle of Ethnic Clashes
The soldiers were deployed to intervene in a land and fishing rights dispute between the Okuama and Okoloba communities, located in the Bomadi region.
Military officials reported that the troops were surrounded and killed by local youths on Thursday.
Reports suggest these communities have clashed repeatedly in recent weeks, leading to casualties on both sides.
Investigation and Conflicting Accounts
An investigation is underway, with the military confirming several arrests.
However, conflicting narratives have emerged.
Okoloba community leader Clement Koki blamed Okuama youths and unidentified mercenaries for the attack, while an anonymous source from Okuama claimed the deceased soldiers were actually Okoloba residents in military uniforms.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana urged the military to exercise restraint and avoid any retaliatory attacks on either community.
Toll on Peacekeepers and Call for Justice
The deaths highlight the dangers faced by Nigerian security forces attempting to maintain peace in the country’s volatile regions.
President Tinubu’s pledge to secure justice for the fallen soldiers underscores the government’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.
