Taoreed Lagbaja, chief of army staff, has directed an investigation of soldiers allegedly involved in torturing Achimugu Etubi, a hotel manager, to death in Abia.

Some personnel of the Nigerian Army were said to have tortured Etubi to death in the south-east state after Emmanuel Onyemereche, an air force cadet, reportedly drowned in the hotel’s swimming pool.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Onyema Nwachukwu, director of public relations, said the army is “deeply concerned by the alleged unprofessional conduct” of its personnel in the “tragic death” of a hotel manager.

Nwachukwu, a major general, said Lagbaja has “promptly” ordered a “comprehensive investigation to ascertain the facts and bring to book anyone found culpable”.

“The NA extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased Manager Mr Achimugu James Etubi and the Nigerian Air Force Officer Cadet Emmanuel Chidiebere Onyemereche and assures the public that every effort will be made to ensure that justice is served,” the statement reads.

“The Army is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and discipline, and therefore any personnel found culpable of wrongdoing will face appropriate legal sanctions.

“Furthermore, the NA reaffirms its unwavering dedication to safeguarding the security of all citizens. We remain steadfast in our mission to promote lasting peace and security throughout Nigeria.”

Nwachukwu said the army is “resolute in its pursuit of truth and justice, and we will keep the public informed at the conclusion of the investigation”.