The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division has dismissed allegations of torture and inhumane treatment at its Provost Group detention facility in Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the Army was reacting to an online petition by Chief Malcolm Omirhobo, which accused personnel of brutalizing detainees and causing the death of Lance Corporal Bala Hudu.
The Army clarified that the deceased soldier had been undergoing court martial since 2023 over the killing of a commercial motorcycle operator in Katsina State. During the trial, he was found to have underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure and other ailments, for which he was receiving ongoing medical care.
According to the statement, 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 diagnosed with severe pneumonia and malaria but died on April 17 following complications.
The Army said the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division has constituted an independent Board of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, assuring that the process would be transparent and thorough.
It strongly denied claims of torture or reprisals against detainees, insisting that its detention facilities operate in line with international standards and Nigeria’s legal framework, including provisions guaranteeing human dignity.
The Army further reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for torture and extra-judicial actions, warning that any personnel found culpable would face strict disciplinary measures.
As part of efforts to ensure accountability, the Army invited the petitioner and other interested parties to appear before the Board of Inquiry scheduled to sit from April 29 to May 10, 2026.
It urged the public to disregard what it described as baseless allegations and to have confidence in the ongoing investigation and the institution’s commitment to justice and professionalism.
