Odita Sunday 
Army Counters Torture Allegations in Sokoto, Says Detained Soldier Died of Illness, Orders Probe
By Odita Sunday
The Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations of torture and inhumane treatment at its 8 Division Provost Group Detention Facility in Sokoto, insisting that the death of a detained soldier, Lance Corporal Bala Hudu, was linked to underlying health complications rather than abuse.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the 8 Division said the claims, contained in an online petition by Malcolm Omirhobo, were misleading and did not reflect the reality of operations at the detention facility.
“While we acknowledge the petitioner’s civic interest, it is necessary to correct misinformation and reaffirm our commitment to discipline, professionalism and respect for human rights,” the statement said.
The Army explained that the late Lance Corporal had been undergoing trial following the killing of a commercial motorcycle operator in Katsina State in April 2023, which led to his detention and subsequent court martial proceedings.
According to the statement, medical evaluations conducted during the trial revealed that the deceased had pre-existing health conditions, including hyperopia, allergic conjunctivitis, and hypertension, for which he was receiving continuous treatment.
“Due to his health status, he was granted unrestricted access to his family and legal counsel, and remained under continuous medical supervision,” the Army said.
The statement further disclosed that the soldier was admitted to the Accident and Emergency Unit of the 8 Division Medical Services Hospital on April 15, 2026, after presenting symptoms including headache, weakness, and rapid breathing.
“He was diagnosed with severe right lobar pneumonia and malaria and was being attended to with nursing support,” it added.
However, the Army said his condition worsened two days later, leading to his death on April 17, 2026.
“His untimely death was likely due to complications arising from his underlying ailments,” the statement noted.
In response to the incident, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division ordered an independent Board of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death.
“The process is ongoing, transparent, and thorough, in line with military protocols,” the Army said.
The Division categorically denied allegations of torture, intimidation, and reprisal attacks against detainees, describing them as unfounded.
“The claims of ongoing torture are false and a gross misrepresentation of our detention facility,” it stated.
The Army emphasised that its detention facilities operate in line with international standards and the provisions of the Armed Forces Act, as well as Section 34 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the dignity of persons.
“Detainees receive routine medical evaluations and their physical and psychological well-being is prioritised,” the statement added.
It reiterated that the leadership of the Division maintains a zero-tolerance policy for torture and other forms of degrading treatment.
“Any personnel found violating this policy faces severe disciplinary measures,” it warned.
The Army also extended an invitation to the petitioner and other interested parties to appear before the Board of Inquiry between April 29 and May 10, 2026.
“We remain open to collaboration with independent bodies to ensure justice and accountability,” the statement said.
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