Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has called for a transparent investigation into the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state.
Oborevwori made the call on Friday when the Board of Enquiry constituted by the Defence Headquarters to investigate the incident visited him at the Government House Annex, Warri.
The governor said that innocent citizens should not be made to suffer any further.
He said his administration was deeply pained over the sad incident and would do all to assist the board with its assignments.
“I am very happy for this meeting taking place here today in Warri. Setting up this board of enquiry is a good one.
“Most people who spoke about the issue did so out of ignorance because they lacked the true knowledge of what happened.
“In Delta, there are two bodies we do not play with – the Advisory and Peace Building Council and the Peace Building and Conflict Resolution.
“Both bodies are doing a lot to ensure enduring peace in the state.
“I told the Secretary to the State Government to invite the Okuama/Okoloba people and made it mandatory for the Chairmen of Ughelli South and Bomadi Local Government Councils to be in attendance.
“The members of the State House of Assembly representing the constituencies and the President- Generals of the communities were also to be in attendance,” he said.
Earlier, Chairman of the Board of Enquiry, AVM David Ajayi, said the board was in the state to investigate the unfortunate incident that happened at Okuama.
“We are here on a fact-finding mission and not to apportion blame. We are here to gather facts from security agencies, community leaders, and community dwellers.
“This report will also help to ensure healthy communication that will enhance civil-military relations and ensure that economic activities thrive again in the affected communities,” he said.