Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has expressed deep condolences to the Nigerian Army following the tragic attack on a military checkpoint in Umuahia South Local Government Area, where several soldiers were killed by unidentified assailants. In a letter addressed to the acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, dated November 14, 2024, and released to the press on Saturday, Otti condemned the attack as barbaric and unwarranted.
“It is with a deep sense of loss that I write to commiserate with you over the unfortunate and barbaric killing of three soldiers by yet-to-be-identified assailants at the boundary town of Umuopara, in Umuahia South LGA of my state,” the governor wrote.
Condolences to the Nigerian Army and Families
Governor Otti extended his heartfelt condolences to the GOC 82 Division, Enugu, the Commander of the 14 Brigade, Ohafia, and the Commanding Officer of the 145 Battalion, Umuahia, from where the soldiers were deployed. He also expressed sympathy for the families of the deceased and the injured soldiers.
“Please extend my deep condolences to the immediate families of the gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price as well as those who were injured during the attack,” Otti said.
Pledge to Pursue Justice
Recalling a similar incident earlier this year at Obikabia Junction near Aba, Governor Otti noted that efforts by the Nigerian Army and other security agencies led to the apprehension of the perpetrators of that attack. He assured the public that his administration would work tirelessly to bring the current attackers to justice.
“Let me assure you that the Abia State Government will not rest until the perpetrators of this dastardly act are apprehended and dealt with accordingly. My administration is poised to join hands with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to carry out a thorough investigation to unmask those behind the attack,” Otti stated.
Commitment to Families of Victims
The governor also promised to reach out to the families of the slain and injured soldiers, pledging his support during their time of grief. “In due course, I will make contact with the immediate families of all the soldiers affected to support them as they mourn their loved ones,” he added.
Attack Overview
The attack occurred early Wednesday morning, around 6:18 am, at an Army checkpoint in the Ekenobizi community along the Abia/Imo boundary. The assailants targeted the military personnel, resulting in fatalities and injuries, sparking widespread condemnation.
Governor Otti reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peace and security in the state and stressed the importance of collective efforts in addressing the security challenges facing the region.
