In a decisive move aimed at bringing perpetrators to justice, the Defence Headquarters has declared eight individuals wanted for their alleged roles in the recent killing of 17 military personnel in Delta State.

The announcement was made during a briefing held in Abuja on Thursday.

The individuals declared wanted are Prof. Ekpekpo Arthur, Andaowei Dennis Bakriri, Akevwru Daniel Omotegbo (also known as Amagben), Akata Malawa David, Sinclear Oliki, traditional ruler Clement Ikolo Oghenerukeywe, Reuben Baru, and Igoli Ebi.

Addressing the media, Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, called upon Nigerians, particularly residents of Delta and neighboring states, to provide credible information that could lead to the apprehension of these suspects.

General Buba reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to bringing the perpetrators of the heinous act to justice and reiterated their determination to rescue all kidnapped and abducted victims in Nigeria.

The release of the wanted list followed the solemn burial ceremony of the 17 slain soldiers, attended by President Bola Tinubu, governors, federal lawmakers, and other dignitaries.

During the ceremony, President Tinubu pledged support for the families of the victims, announcing scholarships for the children of the fallen soldiers, including those yet to be born.

Additionally, national awards were posthumously conferred upon the soldiers.

“They have all been awarded now a posthumous national honour. The four gallant officers have been accorded the awards of the Members of the Order of Nigeria (MON),” Tinubu said.

“The 13 courageous soldiers who also lost their lives have been awarded the Officers of the Federal Republic medals.”

Echoing President Tinubu’s sentiments, Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja assured the families of the fallen heroes of continued support.

Speaking at the burial ceremony, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa emphasized that despite the demoralizing incident, the military remains resolute in its mission to restore peace across the nation.

General Musa issued a stern warning to the perpetrators, vowing to hunt them down and bring them to justice.

“To the perpetrators of this violence, who seek to sow divisions among our people, take this from me – our resolve will not wither, we will hunt you down, we will bring you to justice and we will restore peace and security in every nook and cranny of our dear nation.

“Your evil actions may cause pain and suffering but they will never extinguish the spirit of unity and resilience that burns within us,” the CDS said.