Headquarters 8 Division of the Nigerian Army has reacted to a petition filed by Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo which alleged acts of torture, brutalization, dehumanizing treatment, and reprisal attacks against detainees at 8 Division Provost Group Detention Facility in Giginya Cantonment Sokoto.
The petitioner alleged that this had led to the unfortunate demise of Lance Corporal Bala Hudu.
The army, in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations 8 Division Army/ Sector 2 Operation Fansan Yamma, said while it acknowledged the petitioner’s civic interest, it finds it necessary to correct misinformation and reaffirm its commitment to discipline, professionalism and respect for human rights.
“In April 2023, the late Lance Corporal Bala Hudu killed a commercial motorcycle operator in Katsina State, leading to a military police investigation and subsequent Court Martial proceedings,” the statement explained.
“During the proceedings, it was discovered that the late Soldier had underlying health conditions, including hyperopia, allergic conjunctivitis and high blood pressure, for which he was constantly receiving medical care at the 8 Division Medical Services and Hospital.
“Due to the late Soldier’s health status, he was granted unrestricted access to his family and legal counsel. Additionally, he was under continuous medical supervision with a nursing assistant assigned to him at 8 Division Medical Services and Hospital.
“However, on 15 April 2026, Lance Corporal Hudu was admitted at the Accident & Emergency, A&E, unit with complaints of headache, body weakness, and rapid breathing. Accordingly he was diagnosed with severe right lobar pneumonia and malaria which was attended to with nursing support.
“Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated on 17 April 2026 leading to his untimely death, likely due to complications from his underlying ailments. Following his death, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, immediately convened an independent Board of Inquiry (BOI) to investigate the circumstances. This process is ongoing, transparent and thorough, in line with military protocols.
“The claims of ongoing torture, intimidation and reprisal against detainees are categorically false and a gross misrepresentation of our detention facility. Our detention facilities adhere 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.
“It is expedient to state that detainees receive routine medical evaluations and care, with their physical and psychological well-being taken as a priority.
“Furthermore the GOC 8 Division maintains a zero-tolerance stance against extra-judicial actions, torture, or degrading treatment. Any personnel found violating this policy faces severe disciplinary measures.
“The Division operates with transparency and welcomes statutory oversight In this regard. We invite Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo and all interested parties to testify before the ongoing BOI from 29 April to 10 May 2026. We remain open to collaboration with independent bodies to ensure justice and accountability.
“The 8 Division Nigerian Army remains steadfast in upholding justice, human rights and professionalism. We urge the public to disregard baseless allegations and trust in our ongoing investigations and institutional integrity.”
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