The House of Representatives has instructed security agencies across the nation to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the events surrounding the killing of soldiers by gunmen in Aba, Abia State.
In response to a motion of urgent public significance put forth by Abubakar Yalleman on Wednesday, the House requested its Defence committees to collaborate with the Armed Forces to conduct a thorough investigation aimed at identifying those accountable for the incident.
Additionally, the House instructed the committee to provide a report within four weeks.
Yalleman expressed sorrow over the unnecessary and horrifying killing of military personnel engaged in peacekeeping duties, noting that such incidents have sadly become frequent nationwide.
He pointed out that attacks on military personnel, often executed through surprise assaults on military installations like checkpoints and during routine patrols, are a troubling trend. Yalleman emphasized that these soldiers were dedicated to serving their country on peace missions, safeguarding lives, and protecting property in the region.
He emphasized that the manner in which gunmen in the South East and other regions of Nigeria target and kill military personnel poses a significant risk to the morale of our armed forces. This, in turn, jeopardizes the safety of Nigerians and undermines the progress made in combating insecurity.
Yalleman contended that such attacks may provoke retaliatory actions by the military, potentially resulting in extensive collateral damage to civilians.
Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Babajimi Benson, underscored the provocative nature of these assaults on military and security installations, noting the immense sacrifices made by these forces in defense of the nation.
He lauded President Bola Tinubu for swiftly demanding that those responsible be apprehended and brought to justice.
While acknowledging the Deputy Speaker’s proactive efforts in easing tensions and establishing a fund for the families of the slain soldiers, Yusuf Gagdi, Chairman of the House Committee on Navy, expressed apprehension. He highlighted the contradiction wherein the House is advocating for measures to address insecurity, yet those who courageously serve the nation are falling victim to attacks by non-state actors.
The military verified the assault on its personnel by terrorists affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed faction, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Abia State. The attack occurred last Thursday, resulting in the deaths of five soldiers.
In a statement issued by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, it was disclosed that the ambush occurred at the Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Area, adjacent to Aba metropolis. The soldiers, deployed as part of Operation Udoka to maintain peace and safeguard citizens, were targeted by the assailants who launched a surprise attack. The terrorists arrived in three Toyota Prado SUVs, concealed within the surrounding urban areas.
Furthermore, the military confirmed that six civilians lost their lives during the crossfire between the terrorists and the troops.