The Nigerian Army has expressed concern over a widely circulated social media video alleging the abandonment of Lance Corporal Itodo David at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital (NARHK) in Kaduna. The video claims the soldier was neglected after sustaining an injury during combat operations.
While acknowledging Lance Corporal Itodo sustained a gunshot injury in 2015, the Army clarified that the injury was effectively treated at the same facility, and he returned to active duty. However, his current condition stems from a separate incident on September 7, 2020, when he suffered a complete spinal cord injury after being struck by a fast-moving vehicle while riding a motorcycle in Abia State.
Following the accident, Itodo received immediate care at the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, before being transferred to the 82 Division Medical Services and Hospital (DMSH) in Enugu. Three months later, he was referred to NARHK, Kaduna, with quadriplegia, muscle atrophy, and multiple pressure sores. Medical evaluations confirmed a complete spinal cord transection, and experts, including international specialists, have deemed his inability to walk permanent.
The Army has emphasized its continued support for Itodo, noting ongoing physiotherapy to improve muscle tone, regular dressing and management of his pressure sores, and consistent psychological counseling. Contrary to the claims of abandonment, the Army asserts that Itodo has been under conservative management and continues to receive the best possible care.
Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, stated, “The Nigerian Army empathizes deeply with Lance Corporal Itodo and remains committed to his care. While we wish more could be done to restore his mobility, every medically feasible intervention has been made to support his recovery and improve his quality of life.”
The Army reiterated its dedication to the welfare of its personnel, both within Nigeria and abroad, and called for a balanced perspective in portraying the situation.
