Ngozi Nwoke
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa has said the Nigerian Army was not taking laws into its hands by declaring wanted, some persons over the recent killing of 17 officers in Okuama community of Delta State.
In a recent interview on Arise Television, General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, addressed concerns regarding the Nigerian Army’s approach to the tragic killing of 17 officers in the Okuama community of Delta State. General Musa defended the Army’s actions, asserting that they were not circumventing the law but rather pursuing justice in the case.
The incident prompted calls from local villagers in Okuama and legal experts for the Nigerian Police Force to lead investigations into the murders. Criticism arose particularly over the Police’s decision to transfer HRM Clement Ikolo, the traditional ruler of Ewu Kingdom in Delta State, to the Army. Ikolo was among the eight individuals declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in connection with the Okuama killings.
Legal professionals argued that investigating the murders fell outside the Army’s constitutional mandate.
General Musa countered these criticisms, stating that the attack on the officers was premeditated and orchestrated by criminal elements, including cultists and militants profiting from crude oil theft. He commended the slain commanding officer’s efforts in combating pipeline vandalism and illegal refineries in the region, emphasizing his leadership and dedication.
Expressing outrage at the officer’s killing, General Musa stressed the government’s commitment to recovering arms from the perpetrators, as authorized by the Commander in Chief. This stance reflects a firm determination to address the situation and ensure justice for the fallen officers.