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By Lawrence Agbo
The 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Katsina State, has addressed reports surrounding the death of Cpl. Ude Jude, dismissing claims of internal sabotage and neglect as “deliberately crafted to misinform the public.”
In a statement on Sunday, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Capt. Abayomi Adisa clarified that the deceased was a corporal enlisted in 2012, not a lieutenant as widely reported.
Adisa said the incident did not occur within the barracks. On Feb. 16, at about 8:30 p.m., Jude left his duty post at the Forward Operating Base in Funtua to purchase personal items when he was attacked.
”The incident that led to his death did not occur within the barracks as speculated; rather, he sustained injuries outside while deployed at the Forward Operating Base in Funtua.
“On Feb. 16, at about 8:30 p.m., Jude, a native of Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, reportedly left his duty post to purchase personal items when he was attacked,” Adisa said in the statement.
Adisa also mentioned that subsequent investigations revealed the incident stemmed from a physical altercation with a civilian over a personal dispute.
The soldier received first aid before being evacuated to the 17 Brigade Medical Centre. He was later relieved of duty to enable full recovery.
Medical reports showed he suffered stab wounds and other trauma consistent with a violent encounter.
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Despite weeks of treatment and monitoring, Jude collapsed outside his residence on March 24, 2026, shortly after receiving medical care.
He was rushed back to the Medical Centre but was confirmed dead on arrival.
“In spite of weeks of treatment and clinical monitoring, tragedy struck on March 24, 2026, when he collapsed outside his residence shortly after receiving medical care.
“Jude was rushed back to the Medical Centre but was confirmed dead on arrival,” Adisa said.
In honour of the deceased, the Garrison Commander oversaw the burial arrangements, including the provision of a coffin and mortuary services, with additional support from the 82 Division Garrison in Enugu.
Also, all military accoutrements were handed to his next of kin, and the family was informed in line with standard procedures.
Communication with the bereaved family is maintained according to the brigade and security support during the burial. It explained that the delay in public response was to verify facts and ensure accurate reporting before issuing an official statement.
While mourning the loss, he assured that efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack are ongoing.
