By Peter Omopo
Jos, Sept. 19, 2025 – A Nigerian soldier, Private Lukman Musa, has been sentenced to death by hanging for the murder of a tricycle operator in Bauchi State.
The verdict was delivered on Thursday by Brigadier General Liafis Bello, President of the General Court Martial of the 3 Division Nigerian Army, convened at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos, Plateau State.
Musa was convicted on two counts—culpable homicide and unlawful possession of ammunition—following the killing of 32-year-old Abdulrahman Isa in Azare, Bauchi State.
According to the prosecution, Musa, along with an accomplice identified as Mr. Oba, lured Isa to his residence under false pretenses, attacked him, and strangled him to death. They later stuffed his body in a sack and dumped it between Shira and Yala villages in Bauchi. The victim’s tricycle was subsequently sold, helping investigators trace the crime.
Military prosecutors also revealed that Musa was in possession of 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition without authorization.
Brig. Gen. Bello condemned the crime as a grave violation of military ethics and discipline, handing Musa a death sentence by hanging for culpable homicide under Section 221 of the Penal Code, and two years’ imprisonment for unlawful possession of ammunition under the Firearms Act.
The court also dismissed Musa from military service, stripping him of all ranks and entitlements.
Reacting to the judgment, Major Aminu Mairuwa, Acting Deputy Director of Legal Services, 3 Division, said the ruling reinforced the Nigerian Army’s zero tolerance for indiscipline.
“This judgment signifies the Army’s resolve to ensure no personnel operates outside the law or standard operating procedures,” he said.
The trial, which began in early August 2025 following Musa’s arrest, was authorised by Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding 3 Division and head of Operation Enduring Peace.
Family members of the victim expressed relief over the verdict. Anas Isa, elder brother of the deceased, thanked the Army and the court for ensuring justice was served.
The Army reiterated that the conviction underlined its dedication to discipline and its responsibility to protect civilian lives and property.
