Army court martial sentences soldier to death for transforming from “a defender of citizens to a killer”
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Private Lukman Musa serving with the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army in Jos has been sentenced to death by hanging by a General Court Martial (GCM) for the murder of tricycle rider Abdulrahman Isa in Azere, Bauchi.
Musa was on Thursday found guilty of murder, culpable homicide, and unlawful possession of ammunition at a trial presided over by Brigadier General Liafis Bello, President of the 3 Division Nigerian Army General Court Martial.
The court heard that Musa, in connivance with an accomplice identified simply as Oba, lured Isa into his residence under the pretense of helping him move his personal belongings but struck Isa on the head with a wooden object before strangling him to death.
In an attempt to cover his crime, he stuffed the victim’s body into a sack and dumped it between Shira and Yala villages, while his tricycle was later sold.
The GCM also found Musa in possession of 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition without lawful authority.
Bello described Musa’s actions as barbaric and heartless, a grave violation of military values, and a betrayal of the army’s constitutional duty to protect citizens.
“You mercilessly metamorphosed from a defender of citizens to a killer. Your action is an embarrassment and disgrace to the Nigerian Army,” Bello declared.
The convict was sentenced to death on the charge of culpable homicide that violates Section 220 of the Penal Code and punishable under Section 221.
On the second count of unlawful possession of ammunition, contrary to Section 8(1) of the Firearms Act, he was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment and dismissed from the Nigerian Army with ignominy.
Major Aminu Mairuwa, acting Deputy Director of Legal Services of the 3 Division, stressed after the judgment that it demonstrates the army’s commitment to discipline, regimentation, and the administration of justice.
“This judgment signifies the Nigerian Army’s resolve to ensure that no personnel operates outside the law or laid down standard operating procedures,” Mairuwa said.
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