By: Nwakaji Peace Martins
The Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, has announced a reward of N25 million for information leading to the capture of the individuals responsible for the tragic killing of five soldiers in Aba on Thursday.
In a statement released on Friday by the Commissioner for Information and Culture in the state, Prince Okey Kanu, it was expressed that the government deeply regrets the unfortunate incident that occurred on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at approximately 7:45 am at Obikabia Junction, in the Ogbor Hill area, Obingwa LGA, near Aba. The statement described how suspected criminal elements, traveling in multiple SUVs, attacked the Nigerian Army personnel on security duty, resulting in the death of five soldiers.
As a government dedicated to ensuring security, safety, and tranquility within its jurisdiction at all times, the Abia State Government views the events of Thursday, May 30, 2024, as a grave challenge to its commitment by criminal elements seeking to plunge Abia back into a period of insecurity and fear among the populace, particularly in Aba, the economic hub of the State.
This situation is particularly regrettable considering the substantial investments made over the past year to revitalize the city’s public infrastructure and position it as an appealing investment hub for both local and international businesses.
To demonstrate its determination, the state government is offering an N25 million reward to individuals providing valuable information that could lead to the identification and apprehension of those responsible for the tragic killings and the resulting atmosphere of unease in Aba and its surroundings.
The security agencies in the state have been instructed to handle informants with utmost confidentiality to ensure their full cooperation until the perpetrators are captured and brought to justice.
Additionally, the government extended its condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, Major-General Taoreed Lagbaja, and the Military High Command for the unfortunate incident, and offered prayers for the peaceful rest of the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
In line with its commitment to the well-being of security personnel operating within its borders, the Abia State Government will take on the responsibility of supporting the families of the deceased soldiers, including providing regular stipends to their spouses and ensuring the education of their children up to university level. This gesture is the least the state can do to honor the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation.
