Military major killed bandits in ambush in Niger; Kwara Gov. laments

Governor of Kwara State Abdul Rahman AbdulRazaq has expressed sympathy to the Nigerian Army and the people of Eruku in the state’s Ekiti Local Government Area on the passing of Major Segun Oni, who was recently murdered in an anti-banditry operation in Niger State.

Along with other soldiers, Oni, an honourably decorated and direct army officer, was slain on August 13, 2023, while leading troops in a military operation to eradicate banditry in some areas of Niger State.

At different points in time, he held the positions of Second in Command Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces Battalion, Platoon Commander 72 Special Forces Battalion, and Company Second in Command Armed Forces Special Forces Battalion.

He had his training at various military academies in South Africa, Belarus, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Nigeria.

For his excellence, self-control, and diligence, he was awarded multiple military honours, including the General Operations Medal, the Golden Jubilee Medal, the Centenary Medal, and the River Niger Star.

“The Governor sends his heartfelt condolences to the family of the gallant officer, the Nigerian Army, and to the Nigerian Defence Headquarters as a whole,” said a statement signed by the governor’s chief press secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, on Sunday. For Kwara State in particular and the nation as a whole, his passing signifies a great loss.

The statement said, “The Governor prays God to rest his soul and give comfort to his family and everyone who mourns him.”