In a significant development, Maj.-Gen Koko Isoni, the Commander of Army Headquarters Garrison (AHQ Gar), has initiated a General Court Martial to address allegations against 14 officers and nine soldiers. These military personnel are accused of violating different provisions of the Armed Forces Act.
The court martial proceedings took place at the Scorpion Officer’s Mess, located in Asokoro, Abuja. The authority for convening this court martial stems from Section 131 (2) (d) of the Armed Forces Act CAP A20 LFN, 2004, which grants such powers to Maj.-Gen Koko Isoni for the trial of Nigerian Army personnel facing various charges.
During his inaugural speech, the Garrison Commander offered assurances that the proceedings would uphold justice for all involved parties. Maj.-Gen Isoni emphasized that the court members are individuals of unwavering integrity and impeccable character, who bring to this task their extensive years of experience and service knowledge.
Key appointments within the court include Brig.-Gen. MO Eteng as the Court President and Maj. AD Roberts as the Judge Advocate. The court’s session is anticipated to span 60 days.
Furthermore, Maj.-Gen Isoni encouraged the court to prioritize substantial justice over technicalities. He admonished all those appearing before the court to minimize unnecessary delays that could protract the trial process. In his words, “Justice delayed is not only justice denied, but not justice at all.”
The commander underscored that the court operates independently of his authority and called upon the court members to discharge their responsibilities without bias or partiality towards any party involved.
This development marks a significant step in upholding discipline and accountability within the Nigerian Army, ensuring that justice is served in accordance with the provisions of the Armed Forces Act.
