By David Okpashi
Former Director General of National Orientation Agency, NOA, Dr Mike Omeri, has described the the killing of 17 military at Okuama community in Delta State as an attack on the entire nation’s security architecture.
Dr Omeri also said the murder of 17 military officers was not only an aberration on the sanctity of the nation’s security but an attack on the country’s security architecture, which has been greatly undermined and should attract the attention of all concerned including citizens and other security agencies.
While speaking with journalists in Karu, Nasarawa State, Omeri said it was not healthy for soldiers who sacrifice their lives for the nation’s safety to be gruesomely murdered by miscreants or anyone at all.
The former DG, however, cautioned against the quick deployment of the army in police matters suggesting that communal clashes were civil matters as such should be handled by civil defence or the police as first line charge except otherwise necessary.
He called for extensive investigation of the incident and adequate punishment of culprits respectfully meted out, while urging for calm and partnership towards finding lasting solutions.
“Whatever led to the killings could have been handled with dialogue and peace. These are people who defend our nation and must be accorded all the respect they deserve.
“There was urgent need to investigate and apprehend perpetrators of the gruesome killing in delta state.”
“I join other Nigerians to commiserate with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Gwabin Musa and the entire Armed Forces of our nation for the loss and urge the federal government to ensure that the perpetrators are fished out.
“I also commend the President, Commander-in-Chief, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, for standing against bullying of the Armed Forces by criminals in this trying moment.
