Nigerian Army defends dismissal of soldiers who killed Islamic cleric

Brigadier-General-Onyema-Nwachukwu-2-696×433

Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, spokesman, Nigerian Army

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army (NA) said the two dismissed soldiers were tried at Headquarters 241 Recce Battalion, Nguru, in connection with the murder of Sheik Goni Gashua Aisami.

This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu.

According to the statement, Lance Cpl. John Gabriel and Lance Cpl. Adamu Gideon faced a trial at the Headquarters of 241 Recce Battalion, Nguru on Saturday.

They were indicted in a report of a Board of Inquiry set up to investigate the unfortunate incident.

He said that both soldiers were charged and summarily tried for failure to perform military duties and conduct prejudice to service discipline.

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The offences according to him, are punishable under Section 62 (a) of Armed Forces Act CAP A20 and Section 103(1) of Armed Forces Act CAP A20 Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004.

Nwachukwu explained that the two soldiers were found guilty and awarded a reduction of rank from Lance Corporal to Private and Dismissed Regiments.

“The two dismissed soldiers will be officially handed over to the Nigeria Police, Yobe Command in Damaturu for civil prosecution in the court of law.

“Recall that the NA pledged to institute a Board of Inquiry to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident and speedily bring the suspects to justice if indicted.”

“Once more, the NA wishes to commiserate with the family of the victim and the good people of Yobe. May the soul of the deceased rest in perfect peace,” he said. (NAN)

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