The Nigerian Army has made headlines after confirming the arrest of two soldiers involved in the brutal torture of a half-naked man in a room in Port Harcourt. The disturbing viral video, which circulated widely, depicted the soldiers using belts to abuse the man, sparking outrage and demands for the soldiers’ immediate arrest and prosecution.
Lt.-Col. Danjuma Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Public Relations for the 6 Division, Nigeria Army, issued a statement in Port Harcourt, expressing the army’s dismay over the unprofessional conduct captured in the circulating video. He assured the public that the identified soldiers had been apprehended and emphasized the army’s commitment to upholding professional conduct in line with established rules of engagement.
Noting the army’s recognition of citizens’ fundamental human rights, Danjuma stressed that any form of infraction by personnel is frowned upon. Maj.-Gen. Jamaal Abdulsalam, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 6 Division, Nigeria Army, and Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South South, Operation Delta Safe, promptly ordered a comprehensive investigation and reassured that those involved would face sanctions.
Danjuma urged the public to continue providing credible information about unprofessional conduct, emphasizing the division’s responsiveness to such reports. He underscored that the soldiers’ behavior constituted an isolated case being expeditiously addressed by the army headquarters.
This swift and resolute response by the Nigerian Army reflects its commitment to maintaining professional standards and upholding the rights of civilians. The public’s vigilance and the army’s responsiveness serve as key pillars in ensuring accountability and adherence to ethical conduct within the military ranks.