By CrossRiverWatch Admin
At least three of the four officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) killed by gunmen in Omoku, Rivers State have been identified as Cross Riverians.
Those confirmed include Justin Ushunde who hails from Ukambi in Obudu local government area and Celestine Ashikabe who hails from Obanliku local government area in northern Cross River while another, Dan Obeten’s origin could not be ascertained as at press time with his name suggesting that he hails from either Yakurr or Obubra local government areas of central Cross River State.
The trio alongside Victor Usoro whose name suggests he is either from southern Cross River or Akwa Ibom state were said to be manning the Nigeria Agip Oil company in Ogba-Egbemandoni Local Government Area when gunmen dressed in military camouflage engaged them, killing all four.
The confirmation of their identities has triggered a barrage of condolences from family, friends, associates and well wishers on social media with many wishing death for their killers.
The public relations officer of the NSCDC, Micheal Oguntuase, who confirmed the incident in a statement said the officers met their death Monday evening at about 6:40in the morning after a gun battle upon realising they were not military men.
The State Commandant of the corps, Helen Amakiri for her part said the slained Corps men had mistook the gunmen for reinforcement from the Joint Task Force (JTF) following an intelligent report which hinted a pending attack which prompted a message of reinforcement to the JTF.
It is however unclear if burial arrangements have been made by the respective families.
