BREAKING: The military has declared 8 Nigerians wanted in connection with the killing of 17 soldiers in Delta.

The Defence Headquarters has announced the pursuit of eight individuals for their involvement in the recent killing of 17 military personnel in Delta State.

The military unveiled the list on Thursday, March 28, 2024, during a briefing in Abuja.

The individuals declared wanted are Prof. Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriri, Akevwru Daniel Omotegbo (also known as Amagben), Akata Malawa David, Sinclear Oliki, Clement Ikolo Oghenerukeywe, Reuben Baru, and Igoli Ebi.

During the briefing, Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, urged Nigerians, particularly residents of Delta and neighboring states, to provide credible information to assist the military in apprehending eight individuals allegedly involved in the killing of seventeen soldiers in Okuama community, Delta State.

General Buba emphasized the military’s resolve to identify and apprehend those responsible for the atrocious act in Delta State, reaffirming their dedication to rescuing all kidnapped and abducted victims across Nigeria.

The list was released shortly after military authorities conducted a burial ceremony for the 17 slain soldiers, attended by President Bola Tinubu, governors, federal lawmakers, and other dignitaries.

During the event, President Tinubu pledged support for the families of the victims, announcing scholarships for the children of the fallen soldiers, including those yet to be born. He also bestowed national honors upon the soldiers.

“All of them have been posthumously honored with national awards. The four brave officers have been conferred with the Members of the Order of Nigeria (MON) awards,” Tinubu stated. “The 13 courageous soldiers who also made the ultimate sacrifice have been honored with the Officers of the Federal Republic medals.”

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja echoed similar sentiments to Tinubu, assuring the families of the fallen heroes of support.

“The Okuoma tragedy has brought upon the Nigerian Army, and by extension, the Nigerian State, the responsibility of caring for 10 widows, three of whom are pregnant, with pregnancies ranging from four to eight months, as well as 21 orphans and numerous other dependents, including parents,” the army chief conveyed to the somber gathering.

“While extending heartfelt condolences to the families of these brave soldiers, I want to assure them that the Nigerian Army, along with the entire nation, stands with them in their time of need.”

Despite the “demoralizing” incident, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, emphasized that it would not deter troops from their mission to restore peace nationwide, pledging to pursue and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“To those behind this violence, aiming to sow discord among our people, know this – our determination remains steadfast. We will track you down, we will hold you accountable, and we will restore peace and security in every corner of our beloved nation,” the CDS declared.

“Your malevolent deeds may cause pain and suffering, but they will never extinguish the unity and resilience that defines us as a nation,” he affirmed.