The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports suggesting internal sabotage or negligence in the death of a soldier in Katsina State, describing such claims as misleading.
In a statement issued by the 17 Brigade, the Army clarified that the deceased, Corporal Ude Jude, was not a Lieutenant as widely reported, but a soldier who enlisted in 2012.
According to the Army, the incident leading to his death did not occur within the barracks. Instead, he was attacked while off-duty at the Forward Operating Base in Funtua after leaving his post to purchase personal items.
Preliminary findings indicated that the attack resulted from a physical altercation with a civilian over a personal dispute.
The Army said the soldier sustained stab wounds and other injuries and was immediately given first aid before being taken to the 17 Brigade Medical Centre, where he received weeks of treatment.
Despite medical care and subsequent relief from duty to aid recovery, he later collapsed outside his residence on March 24 and was confirmed dead upon arrival at the hospital.
The military said it followed standard procedures after his death, including notifying his family, providing burial support, and maintaining communication with his next of kin.
It added that efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack are ongoing, assuring that justice will be pursued.
The Army also explained that the delay in issuing a public statement was due to the need to verify facts and ensure accurate reporting, urging the public to rely on official sources for information.
