Nigerian Army Court Martial In Jos Sentences Soldier to Death for Murder of Tricycle Rider

A Nigerian Army General Court Martial sitting at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, has sentenced Private Lukman Musa to death by hanging for the murder of a tricycle rider, Mr. Abdulrahman Isa, in Azere town, Bauchi State.

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

According to the court, Musa, in connivance with an accomplice identified as Mr. Oba, lured Isa into his residence under the guise of helping him move personal belongings. Evidence presented during the trial revealed that Musa struck Isa on the head with a wooden object before strangling him to death. The victim’s body was later stuffed into a sack and dumped between Shira and Yala villages, while his tricycle was sold.

The court also found Musa in possession of 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition without lawful authority.

For culpable homicide, contrary to Section 220 of the Penal Code and punishable under Section 221, Musa was sentenced to death by hanging. On the second count of unlawful possession of ammunition, contrary to Section 8(1) of the Firearms Act, he was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment. Additionally, he was dismissed from the Nigerian Army with ignominy.

Brig Gen Bello described Musa’s actions as “barbaric and heartless,” stressing that the conduct was a grave violation of military values and a betrayal of the Army’s constitutional duty to protect 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.

Speaking after the judgment, Major Aminu Mairuwa, Acting Deputy Director of Legal Services, 3 Division, said the ruling demonstrates the Army’s commitment to discipline, regimentation, and the administration of justice.

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

Relatives of the deceased expressed satisfaction with the outcome. Anas Isa, elder brother of the victim, described the ruling as justice served.

“We are very happy with what the court has done. We never believed justice would be served this way, but today we are grateful,” he said.

The case, convened under the authority of Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, marks another effort by the Nigerian Army to uphold discipline and accountability among its personnel.