The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) on Monday began a three day national mourning for the 17 soldiers killed by irate youths at Okuama, Ughelli South Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State.

Among the 17 killed 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 this regard, flags are to flown at half-mast in all military locations nationwide.

Sources said, a signal to that effect has been issued to all the three Services – the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force.

“A directive has been issued by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa to the three Services to that effect.

“FromMonday 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 (KIA).”

Flyingthe flag at half mast is to show respect and sorrow for heroic personnelwho have lost their lives in the service of the nation. (Vanguard)

•In this photo taken on May 23, 2021, the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Air Force flags are flown at half-mast while the Nigerian flag is flown at full mast