Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has called for extreme care to be taken in the handling of developments in the wake of the sad episode of the killing of Officers and men of the Military in Okuama in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Decrying the dastardly killings, DOPF condoled with the Military, and the families of the officers and men as well as families of the unsung civilians who lost their lives in anyway.
The DOPF statement while calling for thorough investigation into the unfortunate Okuama incident, urged that the blockade of the sleepy community be eased by the military to allow for access so that humanitarian aid, including medicals and food be brought to members of the community who have since been locked out of circulation as a result of ongoing military operations.
Urging the military to ensure that its operation Okuama meets approvef global standard of engagements, the DOPF statement reads:
*OKUAMA: Condolences and Calls for Transparency, Accountability in the Wake of Tragic Losses*
The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) extends its heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Army and Okuama Community, following the gruesome and devastating loss of lives in recent tragic and unfortunate incidents.
The heinous killing of 17 military personnel and the subsequent collateral damages which has consumed numerous civilians in a frenzy of reprisal attacks, deeply saddens and diminishes us all as humans.
As we seek swift justice for the gallant fallen heroes, we equally emphasize the importance of upholding rules of engagement and established judicial procedures, especially as defined in Democratic systems.
With Nigeria not in a state of war or widespread civil unrest, it is imperative that operations prioritize citizen rights and safety.
We urge immediate dialogue between government authorities and the military to facilitate access to Okuama Community for humanitarian assessment and aid distribution.
Additionally, a thorough investigation into the remote and attendant causes of the Okuama conflict, as already directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, must necessarily include alleged cases of extra-judicial killings during military operations, which will not only be crucial to uphold justice and maintain public trust, but will hopefully also serve as a watershed reference in addressing subsequent brewing conflicts of similar symptomatic indices across the country.
Our thoughts are with the military and Okuama Community during this difficult time. Let us unite in our commitment to integrity, accountability, and respect for human rights for the betterment of our nation.
Sincerely,
Signed:
*Emmanuel Ochonogor Enebeli, Anipr -Chairman*
Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF
*Shedrack Onitsha, Anipr -Secretary*
Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF)
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