GOC 3 Division Inaugurates General Court Martial

Kangmwa GofwenFebruary 28, 20241 Mins read1.6k

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and the Commander Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Maj General A.E Abubakar, has inaugurated a General Court Martial to uphold the principles of discipline and professionalism within the military profession.

The inauguration, held on Tuesday at the Rhino Officers Mess, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army, Jos, Plateau State, was a step towards addressing various offences and unprofessional conduct of army personnel.

In a post on its X handle, President of the General Court Martial, Brigadier General Liafis Bello, “emphasised the importance of discipline, regimentation, and professionalism within the Nigerian Army. He highlighted that convening a Court at the appropriate time underscored the essentials for ensuring compliance with the Military Justice system,” the post said.

He added that natural justice, equity, and fairness principles will guide all court proceedings. He urged the ministers in the temple of justice to remain committed to unhindered justice and fairness.

Lead prosecution and acting Deputy Director of Legal Services 3 Division, Major Aminu Mansur, said an officer and 16 soldiers would face the court-martial for murder and arms dealing. The action, he asserted, stressed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to maintain the highest standards of conduct and accountability among its personnel in compliance with international best practices and the rule of law.

He highlighted the significance of the court marshal in enforcing discipline, professionalism, and regimentation of military duties.

Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Barrister Azi Aware, represented by Barrister Solomon, commended the Nigerian Army for using internal mechanisms like the General Court Marshal to check the excesses of erring personnel. He said the move by the Army would boost the public’s confidence in the military’s ability to protect law-abiding citizens professionally.

While assuring the GOC 3 Div/Commander OPSH of the association’s support towards the timely trial of accused persons, Aware commended him for taking the bold step to ensure unlawful conduct was sanctioned.