Warri Council of Chiefs accused military personnel from Tantita Security Services of killing five people during a September 18 midnight operation in Pessu community. Chief Brown Mene represented the chiefs at a press conference where he identified the main victim as Dele Ogunbayo, described as a local vigilante leader. Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and observing four military trucks in the area around midnight. The chiefs submitted a formal complaint to police authorities and requested immediate investigations. They called for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to establish an inquiry panel.
The Nigerian Army disputed these claims through Captain Iliyasu Bawa-Rijau, who characterized the deceased as a suspected cultist rather than a community security officer. Military officials stated that troops arrested Stephen Fragene Pessu and eliminated another individual during anti-crime operations. Army representatives claimed the targeted group participated in kidnapping activities and possessed dangerous weapons. Brigadier MA Shonibare praised the military response and assured Delta State residents of continued security measures. The conflicting accounts highlight ongoing tensions between community leaders and federal security forces.
The Nigerian Army disputed these claims through Captain Iliyasu Bawa-Rijau, who characterized the deceased as a suspected cultist rather than a community security officer. Military officials stated that troops arrested Stephen Fragene Pessu and eliminated another individual during anti-crime operations. Army representatives claimed the targeted group participated in kidnapping activities and possessed dangerous weapons. Brigadier MA Shonibare praised the military response and assured Delta State residents of continued security measures. The conflicting accounts highlight ongoing tensions between community leaders and federal security forces.
