By; RAYMOND TEDUNJAYE, Lagos
Members of a prayer group under the aegis of Prayer & Support 4, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies, have condemned the gruesome killing and mutilation of the bodies of some officers and men of the Nigerian Army who went for a peace mission at Okuama community in the Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State.
The convener of the group, Ambassador Mary Abayomi Fatile who condemned the act, called on the Federal Government and all necessary stakeholders to look into the gruesome killing of the military personnel, insisting that the government must fish out the murderers and ensure that they face the wrath of the law.
The group in a statement signed by Amb. Abayomi Fatile, strongly condemned the act, noting that the troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion were on a peace mission to the Okuama community where they were surrounded by some youth and killed.
The group listed those affected to include the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion Lt Col ,two majors, one captain & 12 soldiers .
Ambassador Abayomi Fatile emphasized the universal desire for peace and freedom among nations and their citizens. She underscored that to achieve peace and tranquility globally, effective leadership is essential, particularly in nations where democracy prevails.
The Convener highlighted a troubling reality in Nigeria, noting that despite over two decades of democratic rule, peace and freedom remain elusive for its citizens. Since the advent of democracy in 1999, the nation has been plagued by ongoing challenges to these fundamental democratic principles.
She lamented that even during periods of military rule, dialogue was often employed to resolve issues, yet now, under democratic governance, members of the military are being brutally murdered in settlements within the country.
” This occurrence, is particularly alarming given that Nigeria is not at war.Adding to the concern is the lack of response from leadership quarters, including the hierarchy of government, security agencies, and legislative executives. Despite the gravity of the situation, no meaningful action or statement has been issued in the four days since the incident.” she emphasised.
The Convener’s question regarding the hope for peaceful coexistence among Nigerians is poignant and underscores the deep-seated apprehension resulting from such incidents. If the military, entrusted with maintaining security and stability, is not immune to such violence, it raises significant doubts about the prospects for peace and security for all Nigerians.
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The group emphasized the importance of respecting and properly treating the personnel of the armed forces, recognizing them as fathers, uncles, and brothers who protect the nation. They highlighted the need for Nigerians to unite and collaborate as they did during the nation’s cup in Cote D’Ivoire to tackle the challenges of insecurity, kidnapping, and other vices.
Ambassador Abayomi Fatile emphasized the significance of offering prayers and love to the armed forces during this period of insecurity, acknowledging the sacrifices they make by being away from their families for extended periods.
She called upon the federal government, legislators, state governors, and traditional rulers to address the issues at hand and ensure that the perpetrators are appropriately punished to deter others.
Furthermore, Amb. Abayomi Fatile expressed condolences to the families of the deceased personnel and extended prayers for the souls of the fallen soldiers.
She also conveyed sympathies to Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja and Chief of Defense Staff General Christopher Gwabin Musa, while fervently hoping that such tragic events do not reoccur in the future.
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