The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has likened the heinous killing of sixteen of the Nigeria Army personnel in Delta State as a “civilian coup” against the military.
Ayodele stated this in his message condemning the cold blood killing of the officers and soldiers who were responding to a distress call in Okuama Community in Ughelli South LGA of Delta State.
LEADERSHIP recalls that the troops of 181 Amphibious Batallion in Bomadi Local Government area of Delta State responded to a distress call during the communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities in Delta State.
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Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, Primate Ayodele, through his media aide Osho Oluwatosin, on Sunday morning, described the situation as “unfortunate and unimaginable.”
He emphasized the shocking nature of the assault, asserting that those who valiantly defend the nation should not fall victim to such brutality.
“It’s an unfortunate and unimaginable situation that those defending us and securing our country from attacks could be killed in such an inhuman manner,” said Primate Ayodele in a statement.
The soldiers, comprising a Commanding Officer, two majors, one captain, and twelve soldiers from the 181 Amphibious Battalion, were on a peacekeeping mission to quell clashes between two communities in the Bomadi region when they were ambushed and murdered.
“This is nothing but a civilian coup against the military,” stated Primate Ayodele, emphasizing the gravity of the attack on Nigeria’s security apparatus.
Calling for swift justice, Primate Ayodele urged the Nigerian military to spare no effort in apprehending the perpetrators and ensuring they face the full force of the law.
He underscored the urgency of holding the culprits accountable to prevent further acts of violence and restore public confidence in the security forces.
“I want the military to arrest these culprits and bring them to book. These people are not just civilians,” insisted Primate Ayodele, saying the act “must not be taken for granted because if it goes without any arrest, it means Nigerians are not safe.”
Moreover, Primate Ayodele emphasized the need for enhanced security measures to protect military personnel and their families.
He called for increased vigilance and readiness to confront any form of aggression, stressing that failure to act decisively would only embolden criminals.
“Our security personnel should start moving with arms and when they are going out of their barracks, they should be ready for any form of attack,” urged Primate Ayodele.
He charged that “the president must not handle this insecurity issue with levity.”
The cleric reiterated his unwavering support for the military’s efforts to avenge the deaths of their fallen comrades.
He also emphasized on the importance of delivering justice and providing support to the families of the deceased soldiers.
