Army Court Martial Sentences Soldiers to Life Imprisonment Over Borno Arms Deal
Army Court Martial Sentences Soldiers to Life Imprisonment Over Borno Arms Deal
The Nigerian Army’s Special Court Martial (SCM) sitting in Maiduguri, Borno State, has convicted and sentenced four soldiers for involvement in arms and ammunition racketeering as well as aiding and abetting the enemy in the North-East.
The trial, convened by the Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1 Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, took place at the Headquarters Theatre Command Officers’ Mess in Maiduguri.
Delivering the verdict, the President of the Court Martial, Brigadier General Mohammed Abdullahi, announced that three soldiers—Sergeant Rapheal Ameh, Sergeant Ejiga Musa, and Lance Corporal Patrick Ocheje were sentenced to life imprisonment. Corporal Omitoye Rufus was handed a 15-year jail term.
The court found them guilty on multiple counts, including theft, unlawful dealing in ammunition, offences in relation to service property, and aiding the enemy.
According to the prosecution, their actions not only violated military laws but also jeopardized ongoing counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the region.
The sentencing underscores the Army’s zero tolerance for indiscipline, corruption, and acts of sabotage within its ranks. Military authorities noted that the convictions were intended to serve as a deterrent to others who might be tempted to engage in similar misconduct.
The Special Court Martial is a standing mechanism of the Nigerian Army to enforce discipline among troops and ensure accountability in line with military justice procedures.
