Revolutionary Socialist Movement Condemns Unjust Killing of Nigerian Soldiers
PRESS STATEMENT
Revolutionary Socialist Movement Condemns Unjust Killing of Nigerian Soldiers
- Justice for Killed Soldiers! No to the Massacre of Innocent Residents of Okuama!
- For an Impartial Investigation to Get to the Root of the Matter
- End Insecurity Now!
The Revolutionary Socialist Movement vehemently condemns the brutal killing of troops from the 181 Amphibious Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Okuama, Delta State, on Thursday, March 14, 2024. These soldiers were on a peacekeeping mission to mediate the communal clash between the Okuama and Okoloba Communities in Ughelli South and Bomadi LGAs of Delta State. This barbaric act, reportedly carried out by armed civilian groups suspected to be bandits, is not only despicable but also shameful.
Reports indicate that the Okuama community is plagued by recurrent communal violence fueled by ethnic, religious, and land disputes between its northern and southern parts. It is disheartening to learn that the bodies of 14 soldiers were found mutilated, with parts such as the head, heart, and stomach missing. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased army officers.
The RSM unequivocally denounces violence perpetrated by both armed civilians and security forces. We reject the use of force against the Okuama community. The criminal actions of a few individuals should not lead to collective punishment for innocent civilians. We urge against further hardship inflicted upon the ordinary, vulnerable residents of Okuama.
The incident in Okuama underscores the pervasive security risks faced by all Nigerians daily. Rampant kidnapping and abduction, coupled with porous and insecure local roads, highlight the urgent need for robust government intervention to ensure the safety and protection of citizens.
We call upon the Nigerian government to provide adequate compensation to the families of the fallen soldiers. Similarly, we call on the Nigerian government to end poverty by providing social amenities using the abundant Nigerian resources. With this, bandits and militants will not have a base to recruit, and other criminal gangs will not succeed in wreaking havoc. Many villages and communities need to be locally organized so that they can defend themselves. Furthermore, we demand a thorough investigation into this heinous act, involving community elders, army officials, youth leaders, civil society groups, and concerned citizens, to ensure justice is served.
As part of our ongoing advocacy, we emphasize the importance of allowing military personnel to freely associate and organize under a union, enabling them to address welfare and operational concerns collectively.
Kayode Salako
Spokesperson, RSM