Army commences three-day mourning for soldiers killed in Delta attack

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has initiated a three-day national mourning period for the 17 soldiers who were killed by irate youths in Okuama, Ughelli South Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State.

Among the deceased are the Commanding Officer of 181 Amphibious Battalion Oleh, Lieutenant Colonel Abdullahi Hassan Ali, the Joint Task Force (JTF) Commander in Bomadi, Major Gembu Shafa, another Major, and a Captain.

In accordance with the mourning period, flags are to be flown at half-mast in all military locations across the country.

According to sources, a signal to this effect has been issued to all three Services – the Nigerian Army, the Navy and the Air Force.

“A directive has been issued by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, to the three Services to that effect.

“From Monday, March 18, 2024, up till March 20, 2024, all colours (flags) are to be flown at half-mast in honour of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) personnel Killed In Action (KIA),” the source said.

Flying the flag at half-mast is a gesture of respect and sorrow for heroic personnel who have lost their lives in the service of the nation.