The Nigerian Army has responded to a viral audio-visual footage showing soldiers protesting over overcrowding and poor feeding at the 8 Division Garrison detention facility in Sokoto State.
According to reports, the protest ensued following complaints by detained soldiers about the overcrowded and poorly maintained conditions in the facility. One soldier identified as Lcpl Charles Ekefure with service No: 17NA/76/1660 was reportedly shot during the incident.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, stated that an investigation had been initiated by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, to ascertain whether the incident was isolated or widespread in similar detention facilities.
Describing the incident as unfortunate, Major General Nwachukwu emphasized that it was not in line with the leadership style of the Chief of Army Staff.
“The Army Headquarters has taken note of a report and audiovisual recording circulating on social media produced by some of its personnel held in custody at the 8 Division Garrison detention facility.
“Undoubtedly, the Sokoto barracks detention facility incident is quite unfortunate and an embarrassment to the sound administration efforts of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), to say the least, and in line with his leadership style, the COAS has instituted an appropriate investigation into the incident to determine whether it is an isolated or widespread situation in similar detention facilities,” the statement read.
While regretting the incident, Major General Nwachukwu stressed that the Army would not condone the manner in which the inmates expressed their grievances. He labeled mutiny and conduct prejudicial to service order as grievous misconducts.
The statement also assured that appropriate sanctions would be meted out to soldiers found to be involved in the unruly behavior. However, the Army emphasized its commitment to ensuring that detainees, even those found guilty of aiding terrorists, kidnappers, and bandits, are accorded decent treatment until their judgment is confirmed and executed.
The Nigerian Army expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their concern and support, pledging to remain focused on its drive to combat security challenges facing the nation.
