Nigerian Army Arrests Soldiers Over Alleged Torture Caught on Video
The Nigerian military has apprehended two soldiers following the emergence of a viral video that appears to depict them engaging in the torture of a civilian.
In the footage, seen by Excel Magazine International, a man dressed in military fatigues and another in civilian attire are seen repeatedly kicking and whipping a shirtless individual who pleas for mercy.
In response, the army has expressed “utmost dismay” at the “unprofessional conduct” purportedly exhibited by the officers.
A statement released on Wednesday asserted that the soldiers involved have been identified and apprehended.
The alleged incident occurred in Rivers state, Nigeria, although the precise date remains unclear.
The video’s dissemination on social media platforms this week triggered widespread condemnation, with one user on X describing the soldiers’ actions as “highly cruel, barbaric, and indicative of an abuse of power.”
The military has pledged to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter, assuring that those involved will face sanctions.
International human rights groups have previously criticized Nigeria’s army for alleged rights abuses, such as torture, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings.
Notably, there has been a shift in recent years, with Army Chief Taoreed Lagbaja, who assumed office last year, vowing to instill discipline and professionalism within the military, marking a departure from the historical trend of soldiers acting with impunity.
