Nigeria: A Mother’s Grief: Remembering Lance Corporal Peter Hamman, a Fallen Hero
By Ahmad Hadizat Omayoza, Mamos Nigeria
In the aftermath of the tragic loss of Lance Corporal Peter Hamman, one of the 17 brave soldiers who perished in the Okuoma incident, his mother, Mrs. Hanatu Hamman, shares poignant memories of her son’s aspirations and unwavering support.
Reflecting on her son’s life and untimely death, Mrs. Hamman recalls how Peter, affectionately known to her as her “sonshine,” had dreams of starting a family before fate intervened. Despite the dangers inherent in his profession, Peter remained devoted to his family, ensuring his mother’s well-being and offering her financial assistance whenever needed.
In her heartfelt tribute, Mrs. Hamman expresses gratitude for the bond she shared with her son and the selfless care he provided, even in the face of adversity. With Peter’s passing, she finds solace in her faith, entrusting herself to the mercy of a higher power and embracing the challenges of life without her beloved son by her side.
As the nation mourns the loss of these valiant soldiers, families like the Hammans are left grappling with profound grief and an irreparable void. Despite assurances from government officials, including promises of support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the pain of losing a loved one in service to the country remains immeasurable.
Ahmed Abutu, the elder brother of Lance Corporal Abdul Ibrahim, another fallen soldier, echoes Mrs. Hamman’s sentiments, emphasizing that no compensation can adequately replace the loss of a life sacrificed in defense of the nation. While appreciative of the government’s pledges, Abutu emphasizes the urgency of holding the perpetrators accountable and ensuring justice for the fallen heroes.
Describing his late brother as a man of peace and integrity, Abutu laments the senselessness of violence and underscores the importance of swift and decisive action by security agencies to apprehend those responsible. He urges authorities to spare no effort in pursuing justice and bringing closure to grieving families who have lost their breadwinners and pillars of support.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the Okuoma tragedy, the voices of grieving families serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of conflict and the sacrifices made by those who serve on the front lines. Their calls for justice resonate across the country, urging authorities to honor the memory of the fallen soldiers by ensuring that their sacrifices are not in vain.
In the face of profound loss and heartache, the resilience of families like the Hammans and the Abutus serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Nigerian people. Their unwavering faith and determination to seek justice stand as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of tragedy, inspiring a nation to unite in solidarity and honor the memory of those who have paid the ultimate price for peace and security.
