The Nigerian Army has stated that Lance Corporal Bala Hudu, a soldier detained at the 8 Division Provost Group Detention Facility in Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto, died from complications related to his pre-existing health conditions, not from torture. This clarification comes in response to a petition filed by Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo, a human rights lawyer and activist based in Lagos, who alleged acts of torture, brutalization, and dehumanizing treatment at the facility, leading to Hudu's death.
Independent Board of Inquiry Convened
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 8 Division has established an independent Board of Inquiry (BOI) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the soldier's death. The army assures that the probe will be transparent and thorough, adhering strictly to military protocols. The division has invited the petitioner, Omirhobo, and all interested parties to provide testimony before the BOI from April 29 to May 10, 2026. It also expressed openness to collaboration with independent bodies to ensure justice and accountability.
Details of the Incident
According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, spokesman for the 8 Division, the late soldier was detained in April 2023 after killing a commercial motorcycle operator in Katsina State. This led to a military police investigation and subsequent court martial proceedings. During these proceedings, it was discovered that Hudu had underlying health conditions, including hyperopia, allergic conjunctivitis, and high blood pressure. He was receiving regular medical care at the 8 Division Medical Services and Hospital.
Osoba emphasized that due to his health status, Hudu was granted unrestricted access to his family and legal counsel. He was under continuous medical supervision, with a nursing assistant assigned to him at the hospital. On April 15, 2026, he was admitted to the Accident & Emergency unit with complaints of headache, body weakness, and rapid breathing. He was diagnosed with severe right lobar pneumonia and malaria, which received nursing support. His condition worsened on April 17, 2026, leading to his death, likely due to complications from his underlying ailments.
Army Rejects Allegations
Osoba dismissed the claims of torture, intimidation, and reprisal as false and a gross misrepresentation of the division's detention facility. He stated that the facility adheres to international standards, ensuring the dignity and welfare of detainees. The administration of military justice and provost operations strictly follows the Armed Forces Act and Section 34 of the Nigerian Constitution (1999), which guarantees human dignity. Detainees receive routine medical evaluations and care, with their physical and psychological well-being prioritized.
Furthermore, the GOC 8 Division maintains a zero-tolerance policy against extra-judicial actions, torture, or degrading treatment. Any personnel found violating this policy faces severe disciplinary measures. The 8 Division Nigerian Army remains steadfast in upholding justice, human rights, and professionalism. The public is urged to disregard baseless allegations and trust in the ongoing investigations and institutional integrity.
