Okuama Massacre: Presidency Reacts to Wanted List Released by DHQ

The Presidency has issued a fervent call to action, urging citizens to collaborate with the military in bringing to justice the perpetrators responsible for the brutal slaying of 17 soldiers in Delta State.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, implored Nigerians to promptly report any information regarding the wanted individuals declared by the military in connection with the heinous attack.

The fatal ambush occurred on March 14th, as troops from the 181 Amphibious Battalion ventured into Okuama Community on a peacekeeping mission, only to fall victim to an ambush orchestrated by enraged youths amidst a communal crisis between Okuoma and Okoloba communities in Delta State.

The fallen heroes, including a Lieutenant Colonel, two Majors, one Captain, and 13 soldiers, were laid to rest in a solemn ceremony at the Military Cemetery in Abuja.

In response to this egregious act, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters identified eight individuals, one of whom is a woman, as suspects linked to the massacre. The suspects named include Prof. Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriri, Akevwru Daniel Omotegbo (known as Amagben), Akata Malawa David, Sinclear Oliki, Clement Ikolo Ogenerukeywe, Reuben Baru, and Igoli Ebi.

During a press briefing in Abuja, the Defence Headquarters urged anyone possessing pertinent information on the whereabouts of these suspects to step forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.

Onanuga reiterated the urgency of the situation via social media, stating, “Defence Headquarters declares eight people and a woman wanted in connection with the killing of our military men in Okuama on 14 March. Have you seen them? Be a patriot by reporting them to any military formation or the police.”