Seventeen soldiers from the 181 Amphibious Battalion, including high-ranking officers, were killed by community youths during a peace mission in Okuama. They were laid to rest at the National Cemetery in Abuja, with President Bola Tinubu and other dignitaries paying their respects.

The Defence Headquarters has announced the pursuit of eight individuals linked to the heinous killing of 17 officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army on March 14 in the Okuama community in Delta state.

The individuals being sought comprise seven men and one woman, namely: Akevwru Daniel Omotegbono (known as Amagbem), Prof. Ekpokpo Arthur, Andaowei Denis Bakriri, Igoli Ebi, Akata Malawa David, Sinclair Okili, Clement Ikolo Oghenerukvwe, and Reuben Baru.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, disclosed this during a briefing with journalists on Thursday in Abuja, regarding the armed forces' operations nationwide.

Mr. Buba emphasized that the military is determined to prevent any recurrence of the incident that resulted in the deaths of 17 soldiers, who were laid to rest on Wednesday.

He called on the public to collaborate with the military and other security agencies by providing valuable information to aid in the apprehension of the suspects.

According to him, the armed forces are a force for stability, employing both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to achieve the desired end state.

“Prior to the ugly incident, the military had constructed several civic projects in Delta State as a sign of goodwill. For instance, the construction of Multipurpose Hall and Borehole Projects in Patani Local Government Area and Medical Outreach at Aladja Community in the Udu Local Government Area, all in Delta, among several others.

“Nevertheless, troops would continue with their efforts until the culprits are found, arrested, tried, and brought to justice by Nigerian law. Citizens are our first line of intelligence and must rise to the occasion,” he said.

The 17 soldiers of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, including a lieutenant colonel, two majors, one captain, and 13 soldiers, were tragically murdered by community youths while on a peace mission to Okuama community.

Their solemn burial took place on Wednesday at the National Cemetery in Abuja, evoking tears and agony.

President Bola Tinubu, accompanied by other top government officials, governors, and service chiefs, led the nation in paying final respects to the fallen heroes.