A Nigerian Army General Court Martial at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, 3 Division, Rukuba, Plateau State, sentenced Private Lukman Musa to death by hanging for killing Abdulrahman Isah, a commercial tricycle operator in Bauchi State.
Brigadier General Liafis Bello, who presided over the court, ruled Musa guilty on two counts: culpable homicide and unlawful possession of ammunition.
How the Murder Happened
The court established that Musa conspired with one Mr. Uba to lure the victim to his apartment at the 133 Special Forces Battalion in Azare. He pretended to need help moving belongings. Once inside, Musa struck Isah with a wooden object, killing him instantly.
Afterward, Musa hid the body in a sack he bought, moved it in the victim’s tricycle, and dumped it in a nearby village. He later sold the tricycle.
Delivering judgment, Brig. Gen. Bello described Musa’s actions as heinous, deliberate, and premeditated. He stressed that the crime violated the Army’s values of discipline, integrity, and protection of civilians.
The court sentenced Musa to death by hanging for culpable homicide and two years in prison for illegal possession of ammunition. It also ordered his dismissal from the Army with disgrace, subject to confirmation by higher authorities.
On the ammunition charge, the court found Musa guilty after he failed to explain four missing rounds from his rifle. A search of his residence revealed additional ammunition hidden in a bag.
Army Reacts
Major Aminu Mairuwa, Acting Director of Legal Services for 3 Division, told reporters that the ruling reflects the Army’s zero tolerance for indiscipline and crime.
“No personnel is above the law. The Army remains committed to justice, order, and professionalism,” he said.
Family’s Response
The victim’s stepbrother thanked Major General Folusho Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding 3 Division, and the Nigerian Army for ensuring justice.
“This verdict has brought peace to our family,” he said.
