Nigeria Army clears air on soldier’s death in Katsina

The 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Katsina State, has formally cleared the air regarding the death of a soldier, Cpl. Ude Jude under its command.

This is contained in a statement issued in Katsina on Sunday, by Cap. Abayomi Adisa, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army.

Adisa dismissed the viral media reports of internal sabotage and neglect as “deliberately crafted to misinform the public”.

Setting the records straight, the army said the deceased was not a Lieutenant as widely reported, but a corporal enlisted in 2012 under the 67 Regular Recruit Intake.

”The incident that led to his death did not occur within the barracks as speculated; rather, he sustained injuries outside while deployed at the Forward Operating Base in Funtua.

“On Feb. 16, at about 8:30 p.m., Jude, a native of Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, reportedly left his duty post to purchase personal items when he was attacked,” Adisa said in the statement.

However, he explained that subsequent investigations revealed the incident stemmed from a physical altercation with a civilian over a personal dispute.

He said that the injured soldier was promptly given first aid before being evacuated to the 17 Brigade Medical Centre, where he received sustained medical attention.

According to the brigade’s spokesperson, the soldier was subsequently relieved of duty to enable full recovery, as medical reports indicated that he suffered stab wounds and other trauma consistent with a violent encounter.

“In spite of weeks of treatment and clinical monitoring, tragedy struck on March 24, 2026, when he collapsed outside his residence shortly after receiving medical care.

“Jude was rushed back to the Medical Centre but was confirmed dead on arrival,” Adisa said.

He noted that the Garrison Commander personally oversaw key arrangements, including the provision of a coffin and mortuary services, while additional institutional support was provided by the 82 Division Garrison in Enugu.

Adisa added that in honour of deceased service, all military accoutrements were handed over to his next of kin, and the family was duly informed in line with standard procedures.

The brigade further maintained that it sustained communication with the bereaved family throughout the period, while security support was also deployed during the burial.

Explaining the delay in public response, he said that it took time to verify facts, consult relevant formations and ensure accurate reporting before issuing an official statement.

He assured that the brigade’s efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack are ongoing, vowing that justice will be served.

While mourning the loss of the soldier, the brigade reaffirmed its commitment to personnel welfare, professionalism and transparency, urging the public to rely solely on credible and official sources of information.