Mr Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has condemned the killing of five soldiers in Aba, the economic hub of Abia State on Thursday by members of the outlawed Indigenous People Of Biafra.
The minister vowed that no stone would be left unturned to ensure that the criminal elements fingered in the attack are brought to justice.
Newsband had reported that members of the Eastern Security Network, the militia wing of IPOB on Thursday launched vicious attack on military personnel at Obikabia area of Abia State.
The gunmen numbering over 20 said to be enforcing the May 30th sit-at-home announced by the rogue group to commemorate Biafra heroes and heroines day, killed the military operatives and set their operational van ablaze.
However, Matawalle while expressing deep sorrow over the incident, described the killing of the soldiers as completely reprehensible and heartbreaking.
In a statement issued by Henshaw Ogubike, the Director of the Ministry of Defence, the Minister promised that those responsible for this heinous crime would be held accountable.
“The senseless killing of soldiers in Aba, who were on lawful duty to protect citizens from the threat of non-state actors, is without provocation,” Ogubike stated.
The Minister extended his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and to the Nigerian military, urging troops not to be discouraged by the attack.
He reassured that the government remains committed to supporting the military in their mission to defeat IPOB, ESN, and other criminal elements across the country, ensuring national security.
Matawalle also highlighted the importance of community involvement in the fight against terrorism, calling on citizens to provide intelligence that could assist military operations and maintain faith in Nigeria’s security efforts.
