GOC 8 Division Nigerian Army Inaugurates Special Court Martial
By Lawrence Audu
In a bid to uphold justice and maintain discipline within the Nigerian Army, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander of the Joint Taskforce (North West) Operation HADARIN DAJI, Major General Godwin Micheal Mutkut, has inaugurated a Special Court Martial (SCM) today.
This court has been established to address a range of offenses committed by Army personnel across various operational theaters in the country.
The SCM inauguration ceremony, held in Sokoto, served as a platform for the GOC to emphasize the importance of cooperation among all parties involved in order to achieve a fair and just outcome.
Major General Mutkut stressed that the administration of justice and fair hearings are fundamental to maintaining military professionalism.
He underscored the fact that a court martial, like any other judicial institution, exists not only to provide justice for victims of alleged crimes but also to ensure justice for the state and the accused individuals.
During his address, the GOC called upon the court to carefully evaluate all evidence presented before it, adhering to the principles of fairness and impartiality.
He urged the court to decide each case solely on its merits, with the objective of serving justice to all parties involved. Major General Mutkut also reminded the court of the well-known adage that it is preferable for 99 guilty persons to be set free than for one innocent person to be wrongfully convicted.
Assuring the personnel on trial, the GOC affirmed that the Special Court Martial would be guided by principles of integrity, transparency, and fairness throughout the proceedings. He encouraged the court to uphold these values, ensuring a just and unbiased trial for all individuals involved.
The establishment of the Special Court Martial by the 8 Division reflects the Nigerian Army’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining discipline within its ranks. Through this initiative, the Army aims to address alleged offenses committed by its personnel, ensuring accountability and reinforcing public trust in the institution.
As the SCM commences its proceedings, all eyes will be on Sokoto, as justice is sought for the victims, the state, and the accused individuals. The Nigerian Army’s dedication to fairness and transparency will undoubtedly be put to the test as the court deliberates on each case, ultimately determining the fate of those involved.
