President Bola Tinubu has revealed that the federal government will offer scholarships up to university level for all children, including those yet to be born, of Nigerian Army personnel who lost their lives in action at Okuama community in Delta State.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, relayed the President’s sentiments in the wake of this tragic event.
The President made this declaration during the funeral proceedings of the personnel at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja on Wednesday. He directed military authorities to ensure that the benefits entitled to the deceased are disbursed to their families within 90 days.
Additionally, President Tinubu announced that the federal government would provide housing in any part of the nation for each of the families of the four officers and thirteen soldiers who lost their lives.
The solemn ceremony, attended by several state governors, military officials, and families of the deceased, witnessed President Tinubu bestowing posthumous National Honours upon the 17 fallen heroes. Lieutenant Colonel Ali, Major D.E. Obi, Major S.D. Ashafa, and Captain U. Zakari were honored with the award of Member of the Order of Niger (MON).
Meanwhile, Staff Sergeant Yahaya Saidu, Corporal Danbaba Yahaya, Corporal Kabir Bashir, and Lance Corporals Abdullahi Ibrahim, Bulus Haruna, Sole Opeyemi, Bello Anas, Private Alhaji Isah, Clement Francis, Abubakar Ali, Adamu Ibrahim, Hamman Peter, and Ibrahim Adamu were posthumously awarded the Federal Republic Medal.
President Tinubu recounted the events leading to the tragedy, emphasizing that the fallen soldiers had embarked on a mission of peacekeeping to mediate a dispute between Okuama and Okoloba communities. He expressed his gratitude for their commitment to duty and highlighted Lt. Colonel Ali’s previous operational achievements against terrorism and insurgency.
Asserting the government’s commitment to justice, President Tinubu pledged to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions. He commended the military for their restraint in refraining from retaliatory actions and called upon the elders and chiefs of Okuama to cooperate in apprehending the assailants.
Offering condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and the entire Armed Forces, President Tinubu prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces in safeguarding the nation and urged them not to be disheartened by the loss of their comrades.
In conclusion, President Tinubu urged leaders at all levels to foster peace and harmony in communities, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding and strengthening bonds among citizens. He reaffirmed his support for the Armed Forces and recognized their dedication to defending the nation.
