The 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Katsina has explained how a soldier, Ude Jude, died.

In a statement on Sunday, the army said the corporal “sustained injuries outside while deployed at the forward operating base in Funtua”.

“On February 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,” the army statement said.

However, it explained that subsequent investigations revealed the attack stemmed from a brawl with a civilian over a personal dispute.

Following the fight, the injured soldier was given first aid before being evacuated to the 17 Brigade Medical Centre, where he received “sustained medical attention”.

According to the statement, the soldier was subsequently relieved of duty to enable full recovery, as medical reports indicated that he suffered stab wounds and other trauma consistent with a violent encounter.

“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,” the statement said.

He noted that the garrison commander personally oversaw key arrangements, including the provision of a coffin and mortuary services, while additional institutional support was provided by the 82 Division Garrison in Enugu.

In honour of the deceased’s service, all military accoutrements were handed over to his next of kin, and the family was duly informed in line with standard procedures, the army stated.

The brigade further maintained that it sustained communication with the bereaved family throughout the period, while security support was also deployed during the burial.

Meanwhile, the army said the brigade was making efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

(NAN)