The 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Katsina State has clarified the circumstances surrounding the death of a soldier, Cpl. Ude Jude, under its command.
This was contained in a statement issued in Katsina on Sunday by Capt. Abayomi Adisa, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 17 Brigade.
Adisa dismissed viral media reports alleging internal sabotage and neglect as “deliberately crafted to misinform the public.”
Setting the record 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.
He explained that preliminary investigations revealed the incident stemmed from a physical altercation with a civilian over a personal dispute.
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 spokesperson, he was subsequently relieved of duty to enable full recovery, as medical reports indicated he suffered stab wounds and other trauma consistent with a violent encounter.
“Despite 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 the deceased’s 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 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, Adisa said it was necessary to verify facts, consult relevant formations, and ensure accurate reporting before issuing an official statement.
He assured that efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack are ongoing, vowing that justice will be served.
While mourning the loss, the brigade reaffirmed its commitment to personnel welfare, professionalism, and transparency, urging the public to rely on credible and official sources of information.
