Military declares professor, seven others wanted over killing of soldiers in Okuama

The Nigerian military has declared eight people wanted in connection with the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama, Delta state.

The people declared wanted include Professor Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriri, Akevwru Daniel Omotegbo (Aka Amagben) and Akata Malawa David.

Others are Sinclear Oliki, Clement Ikolo Oghenerukeywe, Reuben Baru, and Igoli Ebi.

The troops were on a mission to halt clashes between two communities in Delta, an army spokesman said.

The troops deployed in the Bomadi region “were surrounded by some community youths and killed on Thursday, March 14,” Brigadier General Tukur Gusau said in a statement.

“The reinforcement team… was also attacked leading to the death of the Commanding officer, two majors, one captain and 12 soldiers,” said Gusau, acting director of defence information.

The soldiers had “responded to a distress call” following trouble between the Okuama and Okoloba communities.

“The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has directed the immediate investigation and arrest of those involved in the heinous crime,” the statement said.

“So far, a few arrests have been made while steps (are) in place to unravel the motive behind the attack.”

The two communities have clashed repeatedly over land ownership in recent weeks leaving several people dead.