Soldiers in Sokoto protest overcrowded cells and poor feeding, Nigerian Army launches investigation

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that it is currently conducting an investigation into the protest staged by some of its personnel who are detained in its Sokoto barracks.

This statement was made by the army through its spokesperson, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, on Saturday.

An audio visual footage showing soldiers protecting overcrowded cells and poor feeding in its Sokoto barracks went viral earlier on Saturday.

Major General Nwachukwu described the protest as unfortunate and embarrassing to the sound administration efforts of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.

He mentioned that in accordance with the leadership style of the COAS, an investigation into the incident has been initiated by the Service to determine if it was an isolated incident or a common occurrence in similar detention facilities.

He further stated that appropriate sanctions would be imposed on the soldiers involved in the unruly behavior in the Sokoto detention facility for not utilizing all available avenues to address their complaints to the appropriate authorities.

If it is discovered that the authorities did not fulfill their duties, necessary administrative actions would be taken against those found to have failed to discharge their duties effectively.

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“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). Following the COAS’s directive to assess all NA detention facilities, necessary sanctions will be imposed on soldiers involved in the unruly behavior in the Sokoto detention facility for failing to address their complaints through appropriate channels. This incident demonstrates serious misconduct and appropriate actions will be taken to ensure effective discharge of duties,” Major General Nwachukwu stated.

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). The COAS has initiated an appropriate investigation into the incident to determine whether it is an isolated or widespread situation. While the service regrets and has gleaned some lessons from the incident, it will, however, not condone the manner the inmates expressed their purported grievance. Mutiny and conduct prejudicial to service order are grievous misconducts, and this very incident epitomizes such.

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The Nigerian Army appreciates the concern and support from all Nigerians and remains committed to upholding professional standards and maintaining a just and fair system in dealing with security challenges facing the nation.

Director Army Public Relations
11 May