Tinubu Extends National Honours To 17 Fallen Soldiers In Delta, Scholarships, Housing To Their Families (+photos)

For the record:

ABUJA, FCT, NIGERIA – President Bola Tinubu has announced on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 that scholarships will be granted to the children of the 17 soldiers who lost their lives in the Okuama community tragedy in Delta State.

Also, the government will provide housing for the families of the deceased military personnel.

Tinubu made this declaration while addressing the military, bereaved families, and sympathizers during the burial ceremony held in Abuja to honour the fallen heroes.

Expressing his heartfelt condolences to the military, Tinubu commended the Armed Forces for their restraint in refraining from reprisal attacks in Okuoma or its surrounding areas. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that innocent civilians are not punished for the actions of the guilty.

Addressing the Armed Forces directly, Tinubu encouraged them not to be discouraged by the loss of their comrades, emphasizing the honor and significance of their chosen vocation. He praised their dedication to protecting citizens and safeguarding democracy, both domestically and internationally.

Regarding compensation for the fallen soldiers, President Tinubu gave the fallen heroes posthumous National Honours, while he assuredt the Federal Government will provide housing anywhere in the country for the families of the four officers and 13 soldiers who perished.

Also, scholarships up to the university level will be granted to all the children of the deceased.

Tinubu urged the military to expedite the process of disbursing benefits to the families of the departed within the next 90 days.

He offered prayers for strength and solace for the families of the fallen soldiers and extended his wishes for eternal rest for the departed heroes.

The ceremony was attended by high-ranking military officials including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as well as government dignitaries such as Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas. Several governors were also present at the burial site.

The tragic incident in Okuama, which occurred on March 14, 2024, claimed the lives of 17 military personnel, including a Lieutenant Colonel, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 soldiers, during a peacekeeping mission.

The names and pictures of the deceased were released by military authorities on March 18, 2024.