The Lagos branch of the Ijaw Elders Forum, IEF, on Saturday, expressed concerns over recent developments following the killing of 17 military personnel at Okuama in Delta and the ongoing military crackdown in search of the masterminds.
The forum said this in a statement, signed by Chief Bukazi Etete and Mr Efiye Bribena, Chairman and Secretary respectively, and made available to newsmen in Yenagoa.
It condemned the attack on military personnel, saying it was unacceptable and demanded the isolation and apprehension of the culprits to face the law.
“We condemn in very strong terms the killing of military personnel in Okuama community and call on the authorities to thoroughly investigate and bring the perpetrators of this dastardly act to justice.
“This should be done with respect to relevant laws, swiftly and equitably,” the forum said.
IEF, however, said it had observed with dismay the alleged invasion and wanton destruction of lives and properties in Okuama, Delta State, and Igbomatoru, Bayelsa, by the military.
“We, therefore, call on the authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and bring to justice all those responsible for the killings and destruction of properties in both communities.
“The military has a constitutional role in protecting citizens and so must respect the rules of engagement when dealing with civilians,” the body said.
The elders charged the military authorities to thoroughly investigate the immediate and remote causes of the death of the military personnel at Okuama and other communities including collateral damages that followed the unfortunate incident.
Okuama massacre: Ijaw Elders demand justice for slain officers, safety of innocent residents