The Nigerian military authorities again on Sunday confirmed the killing of six of its personnel including two officers and four soldiers in an ambush attack by yet to be identified assailants in Niger State.
The victims were of the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army who were on security patrol duty in Karaga Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
In a statement signed by the Director Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu confirmed that the felled personnel were killed in terrorists ambush on Friday, 19 April, 2024
According to Nwachukwu’s statement:
“Troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army deployed at Allawa and Erena, while on a fighting patrol to Karaga Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State had an encounter in an ambush staged by terrorists on 19 April 2024. Troops gallantly fought through the ambush and eliminated several of the terrorists as well as captured some of their equipment.
“Sadly, the troops suffered a temporary setback as six personnel, comprising two officers and four soldiers paid the supreme price
“The General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander of Operation Whirl Punch, Maj. Gen. Landers Saraso has, on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff sympathised, with the families of the deceased personnel and promised them that the unfortunate setback would be avenged by the troops.
“In line with customs and traditions, the Nigerian Army authority has contacted the next-of-kins of the fallen heroes, while burial has been conducted for the deceased Muslim personnel with the consent and approval of their family members.
“The Chief of Army Staff was represented at the burial, which took place at Minna Military Cantonment Cemetery, by the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command, Maj. Gen. Kelvin Aligbe.”
Recently, similar situation occurred in Okuama community in Delta State which resulted in the killing of 17 military personnel including officers. The military high command including President Bola Tinubu reacted vehemently leading to an assault on the community.
The military moved in and allegedly raised down the community and arrested its leaders including the traditional ruler.