Army Rejects Torture Claims, Says Soldier Died of Medical Complications
The Headquarters of the 8 Division, Nigerian Army, has denied allegations of torture, brutality, and dehumanising treatment in its detention facility in Sokoto State.
It insisted that a detained soldier cited in a viral petition died as a result of medical complications.
The Division was reacting to an online petition by Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo, which alleged acts of torture and reprisal attacks at the 8 Division Provost Group Detention Facility in Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto, leading to the death of a soldier, Lance Corporal Bala Hudu.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, described the allegations as “false and a gross misrepresentation,” while reaffirming the Army’s commitment to discipline, professionalism, and human rights.
The Army explained that the late soldier had been undergoing disciplinary proceedings following his alleged involvement in a criminal case in Katsina State in April 2023, where he was accused of killing a commercial motorcycle operator.
It stated that during the process, it was discovered that the soldier had underlying health conditions, including hyperopia, allergic conjunctivitis, and hypertension, for which he had been receiving medical attention at the 8 Division Medical Services and Hospital.
According to the statement, the soldier had unrestricted access to his family and legal counsel and was under continuous medical supervision, including the assignment of a nursing assistant.
The Army said the soldier was later admitted to the Accident and Emergency Unit on 15 April 2026 with complaints of headache, body weakness, and rapid breathing, where he was diagnosed with severe right lobar pneumonia and malaria.
It added that his condition deteriorated on 17 April 2026, leading to his death, which it said was likely due to complications arising from his underlying health issues.
Following the incident, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division reportedly set up an independent Board of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death, assuring that the process is ongoing and transparent.
The Division further dismissed claims of torture and intimidation in its detention facility, insisting that its operations comply strictly with the Armed Forces Act and constitutional provisions on human dignity.
It maintained that detainees are given routine medical attention and that its detention procedures meet acceptable professional and human rights standards.
“The GOC maintains a zero-tolerance stance against torture, extra-judicial actions, or degrading treatment,” the statement added, noting that any personnel found culpable would face disciplinary measures.
The Army also invited the petitioner and other interested parties to testify before the ongoing Board of Inquiry, scheduled to sit from 29 April to 10 May 2026, adding that it remains open to statutory oversight and independent scrutiny.
It urged the public to disregard what it described as “baseless allegations,” and to rely on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
The 8 Division reaffirmed its commitment to justice, accountability, and professionalism in the conduct of military operations and detention management.
By TimesNG