The youth wing of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) has condemned and described as unacceptable the gruesome killing of 17 military personnel including the commanding officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi, by unknown gunmen around Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
A statement by President of UPU youth wing, Activist Blessed Ughere and Publicity Secretary, Comr. Aboyi Lawson, however, demanded for a thorough investigation into the barbaric killing of the soldiers by the assailants.
Niger Delta Today reports that 17 military personnel including the lieutenant colonel, two majors and a captain were ambushed and murdered while reportedly on a peace mission to Okuama community in Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom.
Reacting to the sad incident in a statement on Wednesday, Urhobo youths commiserated with the families of the slain soldiers and the Nigerian Government over the unfortunate incident.
“The Urhobo Progress Union UPU Youth Wing, serving as the socio-cultural umbrella for the youth of the Urhobo Nation worldwide, stands firm on the principles of unity, peace, and progress. Our motto, “UNITY IS STRENGTH,” resonates deeply with our mission to foster mutual understanding, brotherhood, and good neighborliness within and beyond the Urhobo community.
“In light of recent reports detailing communal crises between Okuama and Okoloba, as well as the tragic loss of Nigerian soldiers in Okuama community, the UPU Youth Wing, under the leadership of Activist Ughere Blessed, expresses profound sadness and condemns any actions contrary to our goals and objectives.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and stand in solidarity with all well-meaning Nigerians and the brave men and women of our armed forces. Their sacrifices for the security and stability of our nation will forever be remembered and honoured.
“We call upon the Nigerian government to conduct a thorough and professional investigation to ensure that those responsible for this heinous crime are swiftly brought to justice in accordance with the laws of our nation.
“As we confront these challenging times, the UPU Youth Wing reaffirms our unwavering commitment to promote love, understanding, and brotherhood within our communities and our neighbours. We remain steadfast in our pursuit of a future where peace prevails in Delta State and Nigeria as a whole”, the statement added.
Similarly, Legal Adviser, UPU youth wing, Princess Omeyoma Eshemitan, also said Urhobo youths were solidly behind the call for an independent investigation into the killing of the gallant fallen soldiers.
“Similarly, the Office of the leaga adviser, UPU Ighele r’ Urhobo (UPU youth wing) stands in solidarity with our elders and stakeholders in calling for peace and asking that an independent investigation be instituted to ensure unity, peace and progress for Okuoma community”, Princess Eshemitan added
