The Nigerian Army has pledged to take decisive action after detained soldiers protested against what they described as overcrowded cells and poor feeding at the Sokoto barracks detention facility.

In a statement released on Saturday by a spokesman for the Army, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the military expressed regret over the incident, describing it as an embarrassment.

The Army assured the public that an investigation would be conducted to determine whether similar issues exist in other detention facilities across the country.

The statement emphasized that while the Army acknowledges the grievances of the detainees, it does not condone the manner in which they expressed their discontent. The actions of the protesting soldiers were labeled as “mutiny and conduct prejudicial to service order,” which the Army stated would not be tolerated.

Major General Nwachukwu highlighted the commitment of the Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, to ensuring the well-being of detainees. He assured that the directives issued by the Army Chief to assess the conditions of all military detention facilities would be promptly implemented.

The Army reiterated its dedication to upholding professionalism and discipline within its ranks, emphasizing the need for soldiers to follow appropriate channels to address grievances. It warned that necessary administrative actions would be taken against those found guilty of misconduct.

Furthermore, the statement emphasized the Army’s commitment to providing decent living conditions for detainees, even those awaiting sentencing for crimes related to terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry. The Army pledged to ensure that detainees receive fair treatment until their judgments are confirmed and executed.

The Army’s response comes in the wake of a viral video showing detained soldiers protesting against their living conditions, highlighting concerns about the welfare of military personnel in detention facilities across the country.