In Nigerian history, the military has played a critical role in determining the country’s course, frequently intervening during times of crisis or political instability. While the military services have played an important role in defending territorial integrity and national security, their reactions to internal conflicts and insurgencies have often been too violent.
Nigeria has seen a series of horrific military retaliations that have left indelible wounds in the collective memory of its people. These instances, marked by widespread destruction, loss of life, and human rights violations, demonstrate the complexities and limitations of military participation in Nigeria.
1. Odi Massacre 1999
Following the assassination of 12 police officers by suspected militants in the town of Odi in Bayelsa State, the Nigerian military started a huge operation to apprehend those responsible. The military retaliated brutally, according to reports, by razing the village, killing hundreds of inhabitants, and violating several human rights. The Odi Massacre remains one of the most contentious events in Nigerian history, with disputes raging about the military’s response’s appropriateness and proportionality.
2. Zaki Biam Massacre 2001
Similar to the Odi Massacre, the Nigerian military mounted a retaliatory operation in Zaki Biam, Benue State, when 19 soldiers were killed by suspected Tiv militants. The military’s response was disproportionately violent, with reports of indiscriminate killings, property destruction, and civilian displacement. The precise death toll is unknown, but it is estimated that more than 200 individuals were murdered during the military action.
Now 19 soldiers were killed in the Niger Delta in 2024.
An ambush killed 19 Nigerian soldiers on a peacekeeping operation in the Okuama hamlet in Ughelli South Local Government Area in Delta State, including a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, 12 soldiers, and a civilian. The soldiers from the 181 Amphibious Battalion were sent to settle a communal land dispute that had become violent between the Okuama and Okolaba tribes.
In response to the incident, President Tinubu directed the Defense Headquarters and the Chief of Defense Staff to apprehend the offenders and bring justice. The military undertook operations in the impacted districts, arresting multiple people, including three key figures suspected of being behind the attack.
The military responded quickly and decisively, deploying extra personnel to the region and relentlessly demolishing buildings in the village as retaliation. The deployment of armoured vehicles to Bomadi, the headquarters of the Bomadi council, caused many people of the Okuama and Okolaba settlements to flee their homes, prompting increased security measures in the region.
