Ijaw Youths Kill Army Commander, Soldiers in Delta Amid Peace Mission

Ijaw youths have reportedly killed several members of the Nigerian Army, including their commanding officer, in Delta State. The troops were deployed on a peacekeeping mission to quell the conflict between two communities in Bomadi Local Government Area.

According to Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the incident occurred on Thursday, March 14, 2024, when the troops responded to a distress call amid communal unrest between the Okuama and Okoloba communities. The military personnel, from the 181 Amphibious Battalion, were surrounded and attacked by the youths, resulting in the deaths of the commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers.

In response to the heinous act, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, has ordered an immediate investigation and arrest of all those involved. The military remains resolute in its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region, despite this setback.

The incident has been reported to the Delta State Government, and efforts are underway to ascertain the motive behind the attack. While some arrests have been made, the authorities are determined to bring all perpetrators to justice.