By Deborah Nnamdi
A General Court Martial sitting at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, Plateau State, has sentenced Private Lukman Musa to death by hanging for the murder of a tricycle rider, Mr. Abdulrahman Isa, in Azare, Bauchi State.
The judgment, delivered on Thursday, September 18, 2025, by Brigadier General Liafis Bello, President of the 3 Division Nigerian Army General Court Martial, also convicted Musa of unlawful possession of ammunition.
According to the prosecution, Musa conspired with an accomplice, identified as Mr. Oba, to lure Isa into his residence under the pretext of helping him with personal belongings. The court heard that Musa attacked and strangled Isa before disposing of his body in a sack between Shira and Yala villages in Bauchi. The victim’s tricycle was later sold, exposing the crime.
Military investigators further discovered that Musa was unlawfully in possession of 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
In his ruling, Brig. Gen. Bello described Musa’s actions as a gross violation of military ethics and values.
“For culpable homicide, which violates Section 220 of the Penal Code and is punishable under Section 221, you are sentenced to death by hanging. On the charge of unlawful possession of ammunition, contrary to Section 8(1) of the Firearms Act, you are sentenced to two years’ imprisonment,” he declared.
The court also ordered Musa’s dismissal from service, stripping him of all ranks and privileges.
Major Aminu Mairuwa, Acting Deputy Director of Legal Services, 3 Division, said the verdict underscores the Army’s commitment to discipline, accountability, and the rule of law.
“This judgment signifies the Nigerian Army’s resolve to ensure that no personnel operate outside the law or laid-down standard operating procedures,” Mairuwa stated.
The trial, convened under the authority of Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, began in early August 2025 following Musa’s arrest.
For the family of the late Isa, the verdict offered a measure of closure. His elder brother, Anas Isa, expressed gratitude to the Army and the court for ensuring justice.
The Nigerian Army noted that the conviction and sentencing of Private Musa stand as a reminder of its zero tolerance for indiscipline and its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
