The Army Headquarters has announced its decision to launch investigations into allegations of overcrowded cells and poor feeding of detained personnel in its barracks, following a viral video showing soldiers protesting against the conditions.
In a statement titled “Army’s Response to Viral Audio Visual Footage of Soldiers Protesting Overcrowded Cells, Poor Feeding,” issued by Major Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, the Army acknowledged the report and audiovisual recording circulating on social media, purportedly produced by personnel held in custody at the 8 Division Garrison detention facility.
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Describing the incident at the Sokoto barracks detention facility as “unfortunate” and “an embarrassment,” the statement revealed that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has ordered an investigation to determine whether similar situations exist in other detention facilities.
While regretting the incident, the Army emphasized that it does not condone mutiny or conduct prejudicial to service order, labeling the soldiers’ behavior as “grievous misconduct.”
The statement emphasized the importance of channeling grievances through appropriate channels and hinted at possible administrative actions against those found responsible for failing to discharge their duties effectively.
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The Army assured that detainees’ lives matter and affirmed its commitment to ensuring relatively decent living conditions for all detainees, even those awaiting confirmation of their sentencing.
This commitment, the statement asserted, underscores the Army’s dedication to upholding professional standards and maintaining a just and fair system.
The Army expressed appreciation for the concern and support of Nigerians and pledged to remain focused on addressing security challenges in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies.
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The announcement of the investigation underscores the Army’s commitment to accountability and professionalism while addressing concerns raised regarding the welfare of detained personnel in its facilities.