The Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade in Katsina State has explained the facts behind Corporal Ude Jude’s death, refuting internet rumors that he died due to neglect or internal sabotage.
Capt. Abayomi Adisa, the brigade’s Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, reportedly provided the clarification in a statement released on Sunday.
Reports that suggested foul activity within the military, according to Adisa, were deceptive and purposefully meant to mislead the public.
According to him, the deceased soldier was a corporal who joined the Nigerian Army in 2012 under the 67 Regular Recruit Intake, not a lieutenant as has been widely claimed.
Additionally, the army stated that the event that resulted in his death did not take place within the barracks.
“While deployed at the Forward Operating Base in Funtua, he sustained injuries outside; the incident that led to his death did not occur within the barracks as speculated,” Adisa stated.
The incident happened on February 16 at around 8:30 p.m., when the soldier allegedly abandoned his duty position to buy personal supplies, according to the army spokesperson.
During the expedition, Jude, a resident of Enugu State’s Ezeagu Local Government Area, was attacked.
Subsequent investigations showed that a physical struggle with a civilian after a personal argument was the cause of the attack.
According to Adisa, the wounded soldier was taken to the 17 Brigade Medical Center for medical attention after receiving emergency first assistance.
According to medical records, he had injuries consistent with a violent encounter, including stab wounds.
According to him, the soldier was relieved of duty so that he could fully recuperate. But on March 24, 2026, tragedy struck when the soldier passed out outside his home not long after getting medical attention.
Adisa stated, “On March 24, 2026, tragedy struck when he collapsed outside his residence shortly after receiving medical care, despite weeks of treatment and clinical monitoring.”
“He was rushed back to the Medical Center, but upon arrival, it was confirmed he was dead.”
The Army Assists a Grieving Family
The brigade said that its leadership supported the family of the fallen soldier and managed funeral arrangements.
The statement claims that the 82 Division Garrison in Enugu provided extra institutional support, and the Garrison Commander oversaw the procurement of a coffin and mortuary services.
According to the army, the soldier’s military gear was transferred to his next of kin in accordance with protocol.
Additionally, the brigade kept in touch with the grieving family and offered security assistance throughout the funeral.
Adisa clarified that the requirement to confirm information and confer with pertinent military formations before to making a public response was the reason for the delay in releasing an official statement.
He promised that the search for and capture of the attackers was still ongoing.
The brigade reiterated its dedication to personnel welfare, professionalism, and transparency while lamenting the loss of the soldier. It also urged the public to rely solely on verified and official sources of information.
