HASHANAH Hassan, the grieving mother of the late Lieutenant Colonel A. H. Ali, who was among the 17 soldiers tragically killed during a peacekeeping mission in Okuama community, Delta State, revealed that Ali's death is not the only loss her family has endured within military ranks. Lt. Col. Ali, serving as the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, perished alongside two majors, a captain, and 13 others in the Okuama incident, amplifying the grief felt by his loved ones.
In a heart-wrenching account, Hassan disclosed that Ali's brother, Captain Jamilu Ali Hassan, had also met a similar fate in 2019, losing his life under tragic circumstances in Katsina State.
According to DAILY TRUST, she recounted the anguish of learning that his colleagues were unable to prevent his demise, allowing him to suffer a fate no one would wish upon even their worst enemy.
Hassan's own connection to the military deepened the sense of loss, as she revealed her late husband's military background and subsequent passing after retirement from active service.
Tragically, her family's military lineage extended to her daughter, who was married to a military officer. Their lives were cut short in a devastating car accident, robbing Hassan of her daughter, son-in-law, and his sibling during a visit coinciding with the fasting period.
Reflecting on the devastating loss of her son, Lt. Col. Ali, Hassan expressed profound despair and speechlessness in the face of such incomprehensible tragedy. Despite her overwhelming grief, she found solace in her faith, asserting her belief in divine justice for those responsible for her son's death. Many voices joined in demanding accountability for the perpetrators of this heinous crime, urging authorities to ensure they are apprehended and brought to justice.
She said, "His brother, Captain Jamilu Ali Hassan, also paid the supreme price in 2019 in Katsina State. His colleagues told me that they were helpless, so they allowed him to be killed in a manner that no one would wish even his enemy. I don't know what to do. I am speechless. But if anybody has a hand in this, God is watching and he will judge accordingly."