Nigerian Army Accused of Torturing Hotel Manager to Death in Abia

In a shocking incident at Hotel Royal Damgrete in Umuahia, Abia State, personnel from the Nigerian Army are alleged to have brutally killed Mr. Achimugu James Etubi, the head of the food and beverage department, after a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) cadet drowned in the hotel’s swimming pool.

The victim, Mr. Etubi, hailing from Kogi State, was reportedly tortured to death on Friday morning at a military barracks, according to SaharaReporters. The tragic death of the NAF cadet, identified as CDT Chidiebere, had drawn the attention of the Abia State Police Command earlier in the week.

Following the cadet’s death, Major Inuwa, leading the Nigerian Army investigation, reportedly ordered soldiers, including one of the cadet officers who was with Chidiebere, to interrogate and beat four hotel staff severely. In the process, Mr. Etubi tragically lost his life.

The incident unfolded amidst ongoing investigations into the drowning of Cadet Chidiebere, who had visited the hotel for leisure with friends. The hotel staff, including Mr. Etubi, were initially detained by the police for investigation but were released on bail. However, they were later summoned by the military for further questioning.

According to witnesses, the situation escalated when the military demanded the hotel owner release the staff for interrogation or risk damage to the establishment. Despite police instructions to the contrary, the owner complied, fearing military reprisal.

Mr. Steve, the hotel owner, expressed dismay over the killing of his staff and recounted the harrowing events leading up to it. He highlighted the negligence of authorities in responding to the drowning incident and criticized the military’s excessive use of force against innocent civilians.

Despite reporting the incident to the police, the perpetrators remain at large, with soldiers allegedly continuing to threaten hotel staff. Mr. Steve, determined to seek justice for the senseless loss of life, vowed to pursue the matter until the perpetrators are held accountable.

The tragic death of Mr. Etubi serves as a stark reminder of the need for thorough investigations and accountability in cases of alleged military brutality, calling for urgent action to prevent further loss of innocent lives.