Death Of Lance Corporal Hudu Linked To Medical Complications, Not Torture -Army
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Headquarters, 8 Division Nigerian Army, has dismissed allegations of torture and maltreatment at its Provost Group Detention Facility in Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto, following a petition circulated online by Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo.
The Nigerian Army dismissed the report in a statement on Tuesday signed by the Division’s spokesperson, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba.
In the petition dated April 2026, Omirhobo alleged that detainees at the facility were subjected to torture, inhumane treatment, and reprisals, claims he linked to the death of Lance Corporal Bala Hudu. He called for accountability, alleging systemic abuse within the detention system.
Osoba described the claims as misleading, insisting that the death of Lance Corporal Hudu was linked to medical complications rather than any form of abuse. According to him, the soldier had been facing trial since April 2023 after allegedly killing a commercial motorcyclist in Katsina State. During proceedings, he was found to have underlying health conditions, including hypertension and eye-related ailments, and was placed under consistent medical supervision.
The Army disclosed that Hudu was admitted to the Accident and Emergency Unit on April 15, 2026, with symptoms including headache, weakness, and breathing difficulty, and was diagnosed with severe pneumonia and malaria. His condition reportedly worsened, leading to his death on April 17, 2026.
Following the incident, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division constituted a Board of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. The Army emphasized that the process is ongoing and in line with established military procedures.
Rejecting claims of torture and intimidation, the Division maintained that its detention facilities operate within the provisions of the Armed Forces Act and the Constitution, ensuring the dignity and welfare of detainees. It reiterated a zero-tolerance policy for abuse and pledged strict disciplinary action against any erring personnel.
The Army also invited Omirhobo and other stakeholders to appear before the Board of Inquiry scheduled to sit from April 29 to May 10, 2026, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights.
