Abia state governor, Dr. Alex Otti has offered his condolences to the officers and operatives of the Nigerian army following the tragic death of two soldiers in an apparent attack by unknown gunmen, which also claimed the life of a commercial tricycle “keke” operator in the state.
Initial reports indicate that the soldiers stationed at an outpost in Aba, Abia state successfully contained the attack but not before lives were lost.
Eyewitnesses, including a tricycle operator named Chima Ibekanma, narrated the panic and chaos that ensued during the attack, saying one soldier died instantly while the other was said to have succumbed to injuries at the hospital.
The incident disrupted business activities in the area, with luxury bus operators unable to load passengers due to security measures imposed by the military.
The incident occurred less than a year after a similar attack on a military outpost in aba, although no death was recorded.
Governor Otti, in a statement, praised the response of the army especially their level of professionalism and restraint while pledging full government support in capturing the perpetrators.
The governor’s statement in full:
GOV OTTI COMMISERATES WITH ARMY OVER DEATH OF SOLDIER IN ABA, URGES RESIDENTS TO REMAIN CALM
The Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has been made aware of an incident that occurred at the Milverton area of Aba, on Friday evening, involving men of the Nigeria Army and some criminal elements.
The incident, according to the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Homeland Security, Mr. Chukwunenye Alajemba, left a soldier dead and another wounded, and currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
The Governor wishes to commiserate with the Nigeria Army over this unfortunate occurrence and commends the officers and men of the force for exercising restraint in the face of this unprovoked attack.
He specifically thanked the Commander 14 Brigade, Ohafia, Brigadier General O.O. Diya, for his prompt intervention and ensuring that peace continues to prevail in the city of Aba.
Governor Otti by this statement calls on the general public to remain calm and advices residents to go about their lawful businesses without fear, and to cooperate with relevant security agencies by providing them with useful information as they work to fish out the perpetrators of this heinous attack.
KAZIE UKO
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
Abia State
Government House, Umuahia.
