Army denies claims of torture at Sokoto facility, orders investigation into soldiers’ deaths

The Nigerian Army, through its 8 Division Headquarters, has rejected allegations of torture and inhumane treatment at the Provost Group Detention Facility located in Giginya Cantonment in Sokoto State, and asserted that the allegations are baseless.

This rejection came in response to an online petition filed by human rights lawyer Malcolm Omirhobo, who alleged that the detainees were subjected to brutal treatment, resulting in the death of one soldier, Corporal Bala Hudu.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, rejected the claims and reiterated the Army’s adherence to professional standards and human rights.

“While we recognize the applicant’s civil interests, we feel the need to correct misinformation and reaffirm our commitment to discipline, professionalism and respect for human rights,” Osoba said.

Providing context regarding the deceased, the Army noted that Lance Corporal Hudu has been tried for the alleged murder of a commercial motorcyclist in Katsina State in April 2023.

According to the statement, medical records showed that the soldier had pre-existing health problems, including hypertension and eye-related conditions, for which he had received treatment at the division’s medical facility.

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“Due to the deceased soldier’s health status, he was granted unrestricted access to his family and legal counsel and was under continuous medical supervision,” Osoba said.

The Indonesian Army further explained that Hudu was treated at the Accident and Emergency unit on April 15 2026 after complaining of headaches, weakness and difficulty breathing. He was reportedly diagnosed with severe pneumonia and malaria.

“Unfortunately, his condition worsened on April 17, 2026, leading to his death, possibly due to complications from the underlying disease,” it said.

To address the controversy, the General Officer in charge of the division has set up a Board of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“This process is ongoing, transparent and thorough, in line with military protocols,” Osoba added.

The Army also vehemently denied claims of abuse inside detention facilities.

“Claims of torture, intimidation and retaliation against detainees are false.

“Our detention facilities comply with international standards, ensuring the dignity and well-being of detainees,” Osoba said.

He emphasized that military justice procedures are carried out in line with the Armed Forces Law and Article 34 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees individual dignity.

“The GOC has zero tolerance for extra-judicial acts, torture or degrading treatment. Any personnel found guilty will face severe disciplinary action,” he said.

As part of the investigation process, the Army has invited Omirhobo and other stakeholders to appear before the Board of Inquiry, which is scheduled to take place from April 29 to May 10, 2026.

The dispute stems from a widely circulated petition in which Omirhobo accused authorities at his Canton Dental facility of systemic abuse and demanded accountability for Hudu’s death.

These developments have also reignited broader concerns regarding conditions of detention and compliance with human rights in Nigeria’s security institutions, particularly in areas affected by ongoing military operations.

Division 8, headquartered in Sokoto, is responsible for operations across the North West region under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, targeting banditry and related security threats.

The findings of the ongoing investigation are expected to shed light on the circumstances of Hudu’s death and address the conflicting narratives put forward by the Army and human rights activists.