The Abia State Government has announced a N25 million bounty for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the killing of five soldiers in the Aba area.
This action comes in response to a violent attack on a military unit at Obikabia Junction, Ogbor Hill, where gunmen stormed the site, killing soldiers, burning the unit, and setting ablaze a patrol van.
In the wake of the attack, some soldiers reportedly escaped, but the state government has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life.
In a statement, the government condoled with the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and prayed for the souls of the fallen soldiers.
The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Okey Kanu, reiterated the government’s determination to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“To underscore its resolve, the state government is offering a N25 million reward to anyone with useful information that could lead to the location and arrest of any of the criminals connected to the unfortunate killings, and the subsequent state of apprehension across the city of Aba and environs,” Kanu stated.
He assured that security agencies would treat informants with the utmost confidentiality to ensure their cooperation.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation. The non-governmental organization, #Prayer & Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies, denounced the attack.
In a statement signed by its Convener, Mrs. Mary Abayomi-Fatile, the group condemned the brutal killing of soldiers at the checkpoint and called for decisive action from the Nigerian government.
“The Nigerian government must deal decisively with those involved in this dastardly act to serve as a deterrent to other criminals.
Enough of just saying investigations will be carried out while we are losing innocent officers serving their fatherland,” said Abayomi-Fatile.
The group also extended condolences to the Chief of Army Staff and the families of the slain soldiers, urging for the capture and prosecution of those behind the attack.
Abayomi-Fatile highlighted the importance of respecting and supporting armed forces personnel, who are often family members serving to protect the nation.
She called for unity among Nigerians to combat insecurity and urged federal, state, and local leaders to take decisive action against the perpetrators.
The Abia State Government and the NGO’s call to action reflect a broader push for security and justice in the region.
Both parties stress the importance of collaborative efforts to end violence and ensure the safety of those who serve in Nigeria’s armed forces.
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