Soldiers reportedly attack residents of Ajakpa community

chika ebuzor

May 4, 2017 7:11 AM

Ebitibituwa also alleged that 20,000 people have been rendered homeless as a result of the reprisal attack.

Residents of Ajakpa community in Ese Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State have alleged that soldiers have killed several people in a reprisal attack.

On Monday, May 1, 2017, three soldiers, 15 militants were killed during a gun battle that ensued between men of Operation Delta Safe and the hoodlums.

After the incident, soldiers were dispatched to search for fleeing militants in the creeks and maintain peace.

A source, Tonye Ebitibituwa said “This morning (Wednesday), the military men came to the community with six gun boats and attacked our community. They set the town ablaze. Ajakpa community did not support the killing of the soldiers by Ibori’s gang.

“The community did not in any way support Ibori, but the ongoing action of the military has no human face. Setting the community on fire is unnecessary.”

“The inhabitants of Ajakpa community have been rendered homeless without food, water and basic things of life. We appeal to the Ondo State Government to assist the innocent people,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Captain Ojo Adelegan has debunked the reports.

ALSO READ: 3 soldiers, 15 militants reportedly killed as militants clash with Army

Adelegan said “The Nigerian Army did not burn houses or kill innocent people in that community. The protection of lives and property of Ajakpa community is our responsibility.

“The operation we went for was to flush out the militants so that peace would return to the community.

“If there is burning of houses anywhere, it should not be attributed to the army. Our men can never be involved in such an act.”

Ebitibituwa also alleged that 20,000 people have been rendered homeless as a result of the reprisal attack by the soldiers.

chika ebuzor