5 Army Officers, 20 Soldiers Face Court Martial In Enugu

The Nigerian Army has convened a General Court Martial to trial five officers and 20 soldiers on various offences under the jurisdiction of the 82 Division in Enugu State.

The court martial was inaugurated by Brigadier General Buhari Sadisu, the President of the General Court Martial (GCM), who confirmed that it was convened by Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 82 Division.

During the inauguration, Brig.-Gen. Sadisu emphasized the importance of the court martial in maintaining discipline within the Armed Forces. He explained that the court would review allegations against military personnel and ensure fair trials in accordance with military law.

He assured the accused personnel that the trial would be fair, guided by the principles of natural justice, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended), and other related legal provisions. He stressed that the court’s proceedings would be free from any external influence, offering the accused ample opportunity and facilities to defend themselves.

Sadisu reminded the personnel that under the criminal justice system, they are presumed innocent until proven guilty. He stated, “It is better for 99 guilty persons to be set free than for one innocent person to be convicted.” He assured that the court would judiciously evaluate all evidence to avoid the wrongful punishment of an innocent person.

The court martial has the same powers as the Federal and State High Courts, and any decision made can only be challenged at the Court of Appeal.