Former DSS Chief: Army Shouldn’t Investigate Soldiers’ Deaths in Delta

Former Director of the Department of State Services(DSS) Chief, Mike Ejiofor, has urged against the Nigerian Army’s involvement in the investigation of the killing of 17 military personnel in Okuama community, Delta State. He emphasized the conflict of interest, stating that an independent probe panel comprising representatives from both federal and state governments should be established to uncover the truth behind the incident. Ejiofor made these remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily.

Expressing skepticism about the military’s handling of civilian matters, Ejiofor questioned the decision to deploy high-ranking officers and other military personnel to settle a land dispute. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, suggesting that the involvement of a lieutenant colonel and two majors raised concerns about the complexity of the situation.

Ejiofor stressed the importance of civilian authorities in peace initiatives, suggesting the inclusion of the police and DSS operatives alongside the military for future operations. He highlighted the risks associated with military involvement in civilian affairs, advocating for a collaborative approach to ensure the safety and effectiveness of such missions.

The tragic incident occurred during a communal clash over a land dispute in Bomadi and Okuoma communities, leading to the deaths of the military personnel from the 181 Amphibious Battalion. The Defence Headquarters released the names and pictures of the fallen officers and soldiers, underlining the severity of the loss suffered by the Nigerian Army

The officers include Commanding Officer Lt. Col. A.H Ali, Maj S.D Shafa (N/13976), Maj D.E Obi (N/14395), and Capt U Zakari (N/16348).

The soldiers are SSgt Yahaya Saidu (#3NA/36/2974), Cpl Yahaya Danbaba (1ONA/65/7274), Cpl Kabiru Bashir (11NA/66/9853), LCpl Bulus Haruna (16NA/TS/5844), LCpl Sola Opeyemi (17NA/760719), LCpl Bello Anas (17NA/76/290), LCpl Hamman Peter (NA/T82653), LCpl Ibrahim Abdullahi (18NA/77/1191), Pte Alhaji Isah (17NA/76/6079), Pte Clement Francis (19NA/78/0911), Pte Abubakar Ali (19NA/78/2162), Pte Ibrahim Adamu (19NA/78/6079), and Pte Adamu Ibrahim (21NA/80/4795).