The Headquarters 8 Division of the Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations of torture and inhumane treatment at its Provost Group Detention Facility in Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto State, describing the claims as “false and a gross misrepresentation.”
The reaction follows an online petition by human rights lawyer, Malcolm Omirhobo, who accused military authorities of brutalising detainees, leading to the death of a soldier, Lance Corporal Bala Hudu.
In a press statement on Tuesday, the acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, said the Army remained committed to professionalism and respect for human rights.
“While we acknowledge the petitioner’s civic interest, we find it necessary to correct misinformation and reaffirm our commitment to discipline, professionalism and respect for human rights,” Osoba said.
He explained that the late Lance Corporal Hudu had been undergoing trial after he allegedly killed a commercial motorcycle operator in Katsina State in April 2023.
According to the Army, medical records showed that the soldier had underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure and eye-related ailments, for which he had been receiving treatment at the 8th Division Medical Services.
“Due to the late soldier’s health status, he was granted unrestricted access to his family and legal counsel and was under continuous medical supervision,” Osoba stated.
The statement added that Hudu was admitted to the Accident and Emergency unit on April 15, 2026, after complaining of headache, weakness and breathing difficulties, and was diagnosed with severe pneumonia and malaria.
“Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated on 17 April 2026, leading to his untimely death, likely due to complications from his underlying ailments,” he said.
Osoba noted that the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division had since ordered a Board of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death.
“This process is ongoing, transparent and thorough, in line with military protocols,” he added.
The Army also rejected claims of torture and reprisals at the detention facility.
“The claims of ongoing torture, intimidation and reprisal against detainees are categorically false.
“Our detention facilities adhere to international standards, ensuring the dignity and welfare of detainees,” Osoba said.
He stressed that military justice procedures comply with the Armed Forces Act and Section 34 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the dignity of the human person.
“The GOC maintains a zero-tolerance stance against extra-judicial actions, torture or degrading treatment. Any personnel found culpable will face severe disciplinary measures,” he said.
As part of the ongoing investigation, the Army invited Omirhobo and other interested parties to appear before the Board of Inquiry, which is scheduled to sit between April 29 and May 10, 2026.
The controversy stems from a petition circulating online in which Omirhobo alleged systematic abuse of detainees at the Giginya Cantonment facility and demanded accountability over Hudu’s death.
The case also draws attention to broader concerns about detention conditions and human rights compliance within security institutions in Nigeria, particularly in conflict-prone regions where military operations are ongoing.
The 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, headquartered in Sokoto, oversees operations in parts of the North-West under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, targeting banditry and other security threats.
The outcome of the Board of Inquiry is expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding Hudu’s death and address the competing claims between the Army and rights advocates.
Leave a comment