JUST IN: Court Martial Sentences Soldier to Death by Hanging

A soldier serving with the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army in Jos, Plateau State, Private Lukman Musa, has been sentenced to death by hanging by a General Court Martial at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment for the murder of a tricycle (Keke) rider, Abdulrahman Isa, in Azere town, Bauchi State.

The judgment was delivered after Musa was found guilty of murder, culpable homicide, and unlawful possession of ammunition by the court presided over by Brigadier General Liafis Bello, President of the 3 Division General Court Martial, on Thursday, September 18, 2025.

According to evidence presented, Musa, in collaboration with an accomplice identified only as Oba, lured Isa to his residence under the guise of assisting him in moving personal belongings. Musa then struck Isa on the head with a wooden object and strangled him to death.

In an effort to conceal the crime, he placed the victim’s body in a sack and dumped it between Shira and Yala villages, later disposing of the tricycle by selling it. The court also found Musa in unlawful possession of 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

While delivering the ruling, Gen. Bello condemned Musa’s actions as “barbaric and heartless,” emphasizing that his conduct was a gross violation of military ethics and a betrayal of the Army’s duty to safeguard 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.

On the charge of culpable homicide, contrary to Section 220 of the Penal Code and punishable under Section 221, Musa was sentenced to death. For unlawful possession of ammunition, contrary to Section 8(1) of the Firearms Act, he was handed a two-year jail term and dismissed from the Nigerian Army with ignominy.

Acting Deputy Director of Legal Services, 3 Division, Major Aminu Mairuwa, speaking after the judgment, said the verdict underscores the Army’s commitment to discipline, regimentation, and the rule of law.

“This judgment signifies the Nigerian Army’s resolve to ensure that no personnel operates outside the law or laid down standard operating procedures,” Mairuwa stated.