The General Court Martial for the trial of 14 commanders and nine soldiers accused of violating various Armed Forces Act provisions was launched on Thursday by Maj.-Gen. Koko Isoni, commander of Army Headquarters Garrison (AHQ Gar).
The Nigerian Army personnel were put on trial in the court martial, which was held at the Scorpion Officer’s Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, under the authority granted to him by Section 131 (2) (d) of the Armed Forces Act CAP A20 LFN, 2004.
In his inauguration address, the Garrison Commander gave the accused individuals the assurance that the court’s judges will uphold the rights of all parties involved.
Isoni claimed that the court’s members were honourable, upright men who would contribute their years of professional expertise and service-related knowledge.
He stated that Maj. AD Roberts would serve as the udge advocate and that Brig.-Gen. MO Eteng would preside over the court for the entirety of the 60-day sitting.
He exhorted them to avoid technicalities and render substantive justice to everyone.
He also urged everyone who appeared in court to avoid needless delays that would lengthen their cases, arguing that doing so would result in neither justice nor justice at all being served.
The commander asserted the court’s independence from him and tasked it with carrying out its duties impartially and without regard for personal gain.
