By Ikpechukwu Ojobor, Enugu
A General Court Martial (GCM) sitting at the Headquarters of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army in Enugu has sentenced Private Adamu Mohammed to death by hanging for the murder of his girlfriend, Miss Hauwa Ali.
In a separate ruling, the court also sentenced Private Abubakar Yusuf to 10 years imprisonment for robbery.
The court, made up of 11 members, was inaugurated on February 18, 2025, by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 82 Division, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye. It was convened to try military personnel accused of offences that are not summarily triable.
Delivering judgment, the President of the Court Martial, Brigadier General Sadisu Buhari, said Private Mohammed, service number 21NA/80/6365, was convicted under Section 106(a) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
“After a thorough examination of the evidence, including the accused’s service record and plea for leniency, the panel unanimously found him guilty,” Buhari stated. “In the interest of justice and societal values, the court sentences him to death by hanging.”
In the related case, Private Yusuf, service number 23NA/85/12116, was found guilty of robbery at a mall in Enugu. He was charged under Section 107(1)(b) of the Armed Forces Act.
While the court acknowledged mitigating pleas in Yusuf’s case, it failed to reach a unanimous decision required for the maximum sentence. Relying on Section 140(3) of the Act, the court handed him a 10-year prison term.
“The accused soldier, Private Abubakar Yusuf, is hereby sentenced to 10 years imprisonment,” General Buhari declared, adding that all sentences remain subject to confirmation by the appropriate military authority.
Reacting to the judgments, the Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, professionalism, and justice.
In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the division, the Army emphasized that the actions of a few do not reflect its core values.
“The Nigerian Army assures the public of its unwavering commitment to ethical conduct and accountability in the discharge of its duties,” the statement read. “Swift and firm action will always be taken to uphold justice and maintain public trust.”
