By Chioma Favour
📍Abuja — The Nigerian Army has denied allegations of torture and inhumane treatment at its detention facility in Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Olaniyi Osoba, the Army was responding to an online petition by Malcolm Omirhobo, which accused military personnel of brutalising detainees and causing the death of Lance Corporal Bala Hudu.
The Army clarified that the deceased had been undergoing a court martial since 2023 over the killing of a commercial motorcycle operator in Katsina State.
According to the statement, the soldier had underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure, and had been receiving medical care prior to his death.
It explained that Hudu was admitted to the 8 Division Medical Services Hospital on April 15, 2026, after presenting symptoms such as headache, weakness, and breathing difficulties. He was later diagnosed with severe pneumonia and malaria and died on April 17 due to complications.
The Army further disclosed that the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 8 Division has set up an independent Board of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
It assured that the investigation would be transparent and thorough, while reiterating that its detention facilities operate in line with international standards and Nigeria’s legal provisions on human rights.
The Army maintained that it has zero tolerance for torture and extra-judicial actions, warning that any personnel found guilty would face strict disciplinary measures.
As part of the process, the Army invited the petitioner and other relevant stakeholders to appear before the Board of Inquiry scheduled to hold from April 29 to May 10, 2026.
The military urged the public to disregard what it described as unfounded allegations and expressed confidence that the investigation would uphold justice and accountability.
