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, insisting that its operations comply with established human rights standards.
The denial follows a petition circulated online by Lagos-based lawyer Malcolm Omirhobo, who accused military authorities of subjecting detainees to abuse and linked the alleged maltreatment to the death of Lance Corporal Bala Hudu.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Olaniyi Osoba, described the allegations as misleading and unfounded, while reaffirming the Army’s commitment to discipline and respect for human rights.
“While we acknowledge the petitioner’s civic interest, it is necessary to correct misinformation and reaffirm our commitment to discipline, professionalism and respect for human rights,” he said.
The Army explained that the deceased soldier had been standing trial over an alleged killing of a commercial motorcyclist in Katsina State in April 2023, following investigations and court martial proceedings.
According to the statement, medical records showed that Hudu had pre-existing health conditions, including hypertension and eye-related ailments, for which he had been receiving treatment while under trial.
It added that he had unrestricted access to his family and legal counsel and was under continuous medical supervision.
The Army further stated that Hudu was admitted to the Accident and Emergency unit of the 8 Division Medical Services on April 15, 2026, after complaining of headache, body weakness and difficulty breathing, where he was diagnosed with severe pneumonia and malaria.
His condition reportedly worsened on April 17, 2026, leading to his death, which the Army attributed to complications from underlying illnesses.
The Nigerian Army said the General Officer Commanding 8 Division has constituted a Board of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, adding that the process is ongoing and transparent.
Dismissing the torture allegations, the Army insisted there was no evidence of abuse or reprisal within the detention facility, stressing that its detention procedures comply with international standards and military regulations.
It also invited the petitioner and other concerned parties to appear before the Board of Inquiry scheduled to hold from April 29 to May 10, 2026, to present their concerns.
