Gov Otti Pledges Scholarships for Slain Soldiers’ Children, Vows to Find Killers

On Saturday, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State paid a visit to the widows of soldiers who lost their lives in Aba during a sit-at-home protest organized by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Governor Otti pledged to uncover the individuals behind the killings, whether they were directly or indirectly involved.

During his visit to the 144 Battalion Headquarters of the Nigerian Army in Asa, Ukwa West Local Government Area, the governor conveyed his condolences.

“I offer my heartfelt sympathies to the Nigerian Army, the Brigade Commander, and, most importantly, the families of the five fallen heroes,” he stated.

Expressing his condemnation of the attack, which he attributed to criminals aiming to destabilize the state, Otti described the incident as “extremely tragic.”

He declared, “Our administration will continue to condemn this atrocious and irresponsible act carried out by individuals who wish to harm our society.”

Otti stressed the importance of identifying and holding accountable those responsible for the violence, stating, “While it is a tragedy, we must move forward, but we cannot do so without seeking justice for those at fault.”

READ ALSO: Governor Otti offers reward of N25m for information on the murderers of 5 soldiers in Abia

As a show of support, the governor announced automatic scholarships for the children of the deceased soldiers, extending all the way to university education.

He guaranteed that the scholarship initiative would be enshrined in law by the state House of Assembly to ensure its continuity under future administrations.

Brigadier General Olusola Diya, Brigade Commander of the 14 Brigade Ohafia, reiterated their dedication to apprehending the culprits.

He disclosed that intelligence operations were ongoing to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The attack led to the loss of five personnel, the destruction of two Army vehicles, and the theft of weapons.