Sahara Reporters, through its official X handle, has brought to light the plight of Lance Corporal Itodo David, a Nigerian soldier who has been bedridden at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna for over four years. Injured in the line of duty, David is now a forgotten hero, abandoned by the system he once risked his life to defend.
Lance Corporal David, with service number 13NA/69/0484 LCPL, sustained a severe spinal cord injury during a military operation in Abia State on September 4, 2020. His injury has left him immobilized, unable to perform even the simplest of daily tasks, and in desperate need of multiple surgeries. Despite his critical condition, David alleges that the Nigerian Army has neglected him, failing to provide the medical attention he urgently requires.
In an emotional conversation with Sahara Reporters, the once-active soldier detailed the devastating impact of his injury on his life. “They only remember us when we are dead,” he lamented. David, who served six years in the North-East fighting insurgents, questioned why the government honors fallen heroes while turning a blind eye to those still alive but battling life-threatening injuries.
“I need buttock surgery urgently, but nothing has been done. The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, instructed during his visit to Jaji last year that the names of injured soldiers should be compiled to ensure they receive medical attention. Yet, since 2020, I have remained here, untreated and in excruciating pain,” David revealed.
He further explained that his injury has affected not only his mobility but also his ability to speak clearly, making his appeal all the more heart-wrenching. “Why are gallant officers who defended this country’s sovereignty being abandoned? Are they waiting for us to die before remembering us?” he asked, his voice filled with frustration and despair.
David’s service record speaks volumes about his dedication to the nation. Before his injury, he played a pivotal role in counter-terrorism operations, enduring the harsh conditions of the battlefield. Yet, despite his sacrifices, he has been left to languish in a hospital bed, dependent on the goodwill of his family, who have exhausted their resources trying to support him.
In a heartfelt plea, David called on the Nigerian government and the public to intervene. “I am begging the Nigerian government to consider my plight. I served this country to the best of my ability. Instead of reaping the fruits of my labor, I am left to suffer. Please, help me. I don’t want to die like this. My family has done everything they can, but it’s not enough.”
David’s case highlights a glaring failure in the care of injured servicemen, raising critical questions about the Nigerian Army’s commitment to its wounded heroes. His story is a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers and the urgent need for systemic reforms to ensure no hero is left behind.
As David continues to fight for his life, the nation must decide: will it stand by and watch a gallant defender of its sovereignty perish in neglect, or will it rise to the occasion and honor the living heroes who have given so much?
PIONEER NEWS 