579 soldiers court martialed in Lagos, Abuja

The acting director of Army Public Relations, Sani Usman today revealed to journalists in Abuja that 579 soldiers have been court-martialed in special military courts in Lagos and Abuja for offences ranging from insubordination, disobedience, acts of cowardice, refusal to carry out military duties, and indiscipline, amongst others.

According to Sani, the essence of the court martial is to emphasize discipline within the military.

“There are currently two separate court-martials going on at the army headquarters garrison and 81 division, Nigerian army with a view to ensuring quick dispensation of justice, discipline and professionalism. The essence of this trial is to emphasise on discipline, professionalism and order. Anybody who runs foul of the law and the authorities determine that the gravity of the offence cannot be tried summarily will go for the court martial.” The soldiers are facing trial for alleged offences ranging from insubordination to disobedience to lawful orders, acts of cowardice, refusal to carry out military duties, and indiscipline, among others"he said