Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has expressed his sympathy to the Nigerian Army, the Brigade Commander, and the families of the fallen heroes, stating that the killing of the soldiers was a dastardly act committed by criminals who do not want any good for society.
He condemned the attack and vowed to smoke out those connected with the killing, promising that his government will work with security agencies to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
He also awarded scholarships to the children of the five soldiers who were killed during an attack at a checkpoint in Obikabia, Ogbor Hill, Aba. The Governor made this announcement during a condolence visit to the headquarters of the 144 Battalion, Asa in Ukwa West council, to commiserate with the widows of the slain military personnel.
The Governor’s visit to the families of the slain soldiers and his announcement of scholarships for their children are significant gestures of support and solidarity. The Governor’s commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice and his efforts to support the families of the slain soldiers are commendable.
To support the families of the slain soldiers, the Governor announced automatic scholarships for the deceased children up to the university level. He also reiterated that his government has placed a N25 million bounty on anyone who can volunteer useful information that would lead to the arrest of the fleeing criminals.
The attack on the military checkpoint resulted in the death of five soldiers and the burning of two patrol vans. The Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Olusola Diya, stated that they are not relenting in their efforts to apprehend the perpetrators of the criminal act, gathering intelligence to bring whoever is connected to the killing to book.
The Governor emphasized that the legalization of the scholarship to the children of the dead soldiers is to ensure that successive governments continue to fund the scholarship. This move is a significant step towards supporting the families of the slain soldiers and ensuring that their children receive the education they deserve.
