Nigerian Army Refutes Claims of Abandoning Injured Soldier, LCpl Itodo David
The Nigerian Army has expressed deep concern over a trending social media video alleging that Lance Corporal Itodo David was abandoned at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital (NARHK) in Kaduna. The viral footage claims that the soldier, who sustained injuries during a combat operation, has been left neglected and without proper care.
In a statement addressing the issue, the Nigerian Army clarified that while LCpl Itodo indeed suffered a gunshot wound in 2015, he was successfully treated at the same hospital and fully restored to active duty. The Army described the current narrative as misleading and failing to acknowledge the continuous medical and psychological support provided to him and other ailing personnel.
According to official reports, LCpl Itodo, 33, is currently admitted at 44 NARHK due to a complete spinal cord injury sustained in a motorbike accident in Abia State on September 7, 2020. After being resuscitated at the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, he was transferred to 82 Division Medical Services and Hospital (DMSH) in Enugu and later referred to Kaduna with quadriplegia—paralysis of both arms and legs—along with muscle atrophy, multiple pressure sores, and a cervical vertebra fracture.
Medical evaluations, including an MRI scan, confirmed a complete spinal cord transection, leading to a permanent inability to walk. This diagnosis has been corroborated by medical experts both locally and internationally. Despite the unfortunate prognosis, the Nigerian Army stated that Itodo has been receiving ongoing treatment, including physiotherapy to improve muscle tone and wound management, as well as psychological support.
The Army emphasized that LCpl Itodo has not been abandoned and continues to receive conservative medical care tailored to his condition. The leadership reaffirmed its commitment to the well-being of all personnel, expressing empathy for the soldier and acknowledging the limitations of medical interventions available for his condition.
The Nigerian Army urged the public to disregard the misleading claims and assured that it remains dedicated to the welfare of its personnel, both within and outside the country.
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