The Nigerian Army has refuted reports surrounding the death of Corporal Ude Jude in Katsina State, describing circulating accounts as misleading and inaccurate.
In a statement issued on April 12, Headquarters 17 Brigade clarified that the deceased was a corporal—not a lieutenant as reported by some media outlets. The Army further disclosed that Ude, who enlisted in 2012, was a native of Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
According to the statement, the incident leading to his death did not occur within a military barracks. The Army explained that the soldier sustained injuries on February 16 while deployed at a Forward Operating Base in Funtua, Katsina State.
It stated that Ude had temporarily left his duty post to purchase personal items when he was attacked by unknown individuals. However, preliminary investigations suggest that the injuries may have resulted from a physical altercation with a civilian.
The assailants reportedly fled the scene, while residents assisted the injured soldier before he reported to a medical facility.
The Army noted that Ude received initial treatment and was subsequently evacuated to the 17 Brigade Medical Centre, where he remained under medical supervision for stab wounds and related injuries.
Following treatment, he was discharged and returned to his residence. However, on March 24, he reportedly collapsed outside his home and was confirmed dead on arrival at the medical centre.
The military denied allegations of negligence, maintaining that appropriate medical care and support were provided throughout his treatment.
It added that burial arrangements were duly made, with full military honours accorded, and his personal effects handed over to his family.
The Army also confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for the attack, urging the public to disregard unverified reports.
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