ENUGU — A General Court Martial convened at the Headquarters of the 82 Division, Nigerian Army, has sentenced Private Adamu Mohammed to death by hanging for the murder of his girlfriend, Miss Hauwa Ali, while Private Abubakar Yusuf received a 10-year prison sentence for robbery.
The verdicts were delivered following the conclusion of separate trials for the soldiers’ involvement in serious criminal offenses. According to a statement on Tuesday by Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, the court martial—comprised of 11 members—was inaugurated on February 18, 2025, by the General Officer Commanding, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, to address cases of misconduct among military personnel.
Brigadier General Sadisu Buhari, who presided over the court, declared that Private Mohammed was found guilty of murder, contrary to Section 106(a) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.
“In the interest of justice and public order, the law must take its full course,” Brigadier General Buhari stated. “Private Adamu Mohammed, service number 21NA/80/6365, is hereby sentenced to death by hanging.”
The decision followed an extensive review of the evidence presented, Mohammed’s service history, and mitigation pleas by the defence.
In a separate ruling, Private Abubakar Yusuf, identified as 23NA/85/12116, was convicted of robbery at a mall in Enugu. While the court could not reach the unanimity required for the maximum penalty under Section 107(2), it relied on Section 140(3) to sentence him to 10 years in prison.
“The accused soldier is hereby sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for robbery,” said Buhari.
The sentences are pending confirmation by the appropriate military authority.
Brigadier General Buhari emphasized the Nigerian Army’s zero tolerance for indiscipline, stating that the actions of a few do not represent the values of the institution.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to upholding justice, enforcing discipline, and preserving public trust,” he said, assuring Nigerians of the military’s dedication to professionalism and ethical standards.
