The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has initiated a three-day national mourning period for the 17 soldiers slain by irate youths in Okuama, Ughelli South Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State.
Among the deceased are the Commanding Officer of 181 Amphibious Battalion Oleh, Lieutenant Colonel Abdullahi Hassan Ali, the Joint Task Force (JTF) Commander in Bomadi, Major Gembu Shafa, another Major, and a Captain.
In accordance with the mourning period, flags are to be flown at half-mast in all military locations across the country.
A directive has been issued by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, to the three Services to that effect, adding that from Monday, March 18, 2024, up till March 20, 2024, all colours (flags) are to be flown at half-mast in honour of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) personnel Killed In Action.
Flying the flag at half-mast is a gesture of respect and sorrow for heroic personnel who have lost their lives in the service of the nation.