The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports surrounding the death of Corporal Ude Jude in Katsina State, describing them as misleading and inaccurate.
In a statement issued on April 12, the Headquarters 17 Brigade clarified that the deceased was a corporal, not a lieutenant as reported in some media outlets.
The army said Ude, who was enlisted in 2012, hailed from Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
According to the statement, the incident that led to his death did not occur within the barracks. The Army said the soldier sustained injuries on February 16 while deployed at a Forward Operating Base in Funtua, Katsina State.
It explained that Ude had left his duty post to purchase personal items when he was attacked by unknown persons.
However, preliminary findings suggest the injuries may have resulted from a physical altercation with a civilian.
The attackers were said to have fled the scene, while the injured soldier received assistance from residents before reporting to a medical facility.
The army said he was treated and later evacuated to the 17 Brigade Medical Centre, where he remained under medical supervision for stab wounds and related injuries.
It added that the soldier returned to his residence after treatment but later collapsed outside his home on March 24 and was confirmed dead on arrival at the medical centre.
The army denied allegations of negligence, stating that appropriate medical care and support were provided.
It also said arrangements were made for his burial, with military honours accorded and his personal effects handed over to his family.
The army said investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for the attack and urged the public to disregard unverified reports.