In the aftermath of the killing of 16 soldiers and officers at Okuama Community in Delta State, troops of the Nigerian Army have invaded Igbomotoru community in Bayelsa State.
Soldiers in gunboats reportedly stormed the community, razing houses suspected to be the hideout of a militant leader believed to be involved in the Delta killings.
Residents claim about 11 people were killed, and houses were burnt during the invasion.
Daily Trust quoted a source as saying,”The military invasion has affected the people gravely. Lives have been lost, properties have been destroyed. Even after the attack, I am sure that life in the community will never be the same.
“This weekend was scheduled for the burial of one my late uncles. We had paid for food, drinks, music, speedboat and canopies. And now because of this, the burial can no longer hold.
“In fact some of the people we paid money are saying that if the date changes, we would have to pay extra money. Is that not a huge loss on its own? So we would have to start looking for more money, that is if there will ever be peace in the community.
“I am appealing to the Federal and State Government to as a matter of urgency intervene in this matter. We do not have a hand in whatever transpired in Delta State. The international community should come to our aid.”
The military operation follows the Chief of Defence Staff’s order to investigate and arrest those responsible for the Okuama killings.
Residents of Okuama had earlier fled, fearing reprisal attacks.
