Middle Belt Patriots Condemn Calls for Military Reprisal Following Soldiers Deaths

The Middle Belt Patriots have issued a statement strongly condemning recent calls on social media urging the Nigerian military to retaliate against the Okuama community following the tragic killing of soldiers there.

West Africa Weekly reported that soldiers from the 181 Amphibious Battalion in Bomadi LGA of Delta State, who were on a peacekeeping mission to the Okuama community, were ambushed and killed by local youths on Thursday, March 14, 2024, according to the Defence Headquarters.

Following this, so many calls have been made on social media urging the Nigerian army to retaliate and bring down the community.

However, the Middle Belt Patriots, in a statement issued on Monday, categorically denounced such rhetoric advocating for collective punishment against civilian populations, labelling it as irresponsible, undemocratic, illegal, and morally reprehensible.

In the wake of the loss of servicemen fulfilling their duties, the Middle Belt Patriots emphasised that targeting or harming innocent civilians can never be justified, regardless of the circumstances. They argued that responding to violence with further indiscriminate violence only perpetuates cycles of bloodshed and exacerbates conflicts.

The statement highlighted the need to achieve justice through proper investigation, due process of law, and holding specific perpetrators accountable rather than resorting to scapegoating or brutality against entire communities.

Furthermore, they firmly rejected any insinuation linking them or their members to the support, enablement, or encouragement of such excessive and genocidal actions.

The organisation reiterated its commitment to advancing democracy, human rights, and the rule of law through peaceful and lawful activism, civic engagement, and advocacy.

Calling on all Nigerians of good conscience, the Middle Belt Patriots urged the rejection of dangerous radical voices promoting violence and reprisals.

They emphasised the importance of unity in facing the divisive forces of hatred and conflict, stressing that upholding democratic ideals is paramount in building a just, peaceful, and prosperous nation for all Nigerians.

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