68 soldiers face court marshal in Sokoto
Story from Saleh INUWA, Kano
The 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, Sokoto State, has arraigned 68 soldiers before a general court marshal sitting at Giginya Barrack in the state, for various offences, according to reports.
Declaring the court marshal open, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Major-General Uwem Bassey, said the session was convened due to the urgent needs of posting and promotion as the court marshal is established to administer justice not only to the victims but also to the institution as well as the accused persons standing trial.
The GOC who reminded the 12-man presiding members of the court marshal that the accused were still members of the Nigerian Army, allayed fear of the accused that the trial is guided by principles of natural justice, equity and fair hearing as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Speaking to newsmen, the defendant’s council, Godwin Uwadige said one of the accused soldier was charged with armed robbery while others were charged with cowardice and other punishable offences.
According to the defendant’s council, some of the suspects were in detention for almost two years.
