Hauwa Ali, the spouse of the late Lieutenant Colonel A.H Ali, firmly stated her opposition to any of her children pursuing a military career following her husband’s tragic demise in the Okuama community of Ughelli South local government area, Delta state,Daily Trust reports.
In an interview with Daily Trust, Ali’s widow emphasized that her late husband had already made the ultimate sacrifice for Nigeria.
The shocking loss of 17 military personnel during a peacekeeping mission in the clash between Okuama and Okoloba prompted widespread dismay from the federal government, the Nigerian army, and the populace at large. The officers and soldiers fell victim to an ambush by gunmen on Thursday, March 14, 2024, who also looted their weaponry.
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While the army pledged to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice, some prominent figures advocated for an independent investigation into the incident.
Reflecting on her late husband’s noble character and unwavering dedication to duty, Hauwa, who serves as the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, fondly remembered him. She expressed, “It’s difficult to encapsulate his essence because he meant everything to us. He upheld his promises and committed himself to both his family and his service.”
“He not only served his family but also laid down his life for Nigeria, a sacrifice he willingly made. I pray for his eternal peace and that God watches over him wherever he may be,” she added.
Highlighting his altruistic nature, Hauwa remarked, “His compassion for humanity remains etched in my memory. Regardless of his circumstances, once duty called, he answered without hesitation.”
Asked whether she would encourage her children to follow in their father’s footsteps, she replied, “I cannot in good conscience advise any of his children to pursue a military career. Their father has already paid the ultimate price for our country.”
Hauwa recounted how devastated she was by Ali’s murder, recalling the last conversation they had when he informed her of his peacekeeping mission. “Though death is inevitable, as Muslims, we understand this reality. However, I am shattered by the manner in which my husband was killed. He phoned me that day to inform me of his mission, unaware it would be our final conversation.”
“It wasn’t until Saturday that I received the devastating news, relayed from the State House,” she lamented.
