Ex-Seaman Abbas Haruna: Defence Headquarters Explained Court Martial Verdict
Ex-Seaman Abbas Haruna: Defence Headquarters Explained Court Martial Verdict
Ex-Seaman Abbas Haruna: Defence Headquarters Explained Court Martial Verdict
The Director of Defence Information Tukur Gusau in a press briefing on Wednesday, 2 October 2024, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja, addressed the media on the legal case concerning Ex-Seaman Abbas Haruna (M5759), to clarify circulating reports and allegations regarding the case.
He started by explaining that, Ex-Seaman Haruna, a former rating of the Nigerian Navy, last served under Exercise AYAM AKPATUMA, a joint operation overseen by the Defence Headquarters. “His legal troubles began when he was accused of misconduct during a parade. Haruna allegedly disrupted a briefing by his Commanding Officer (CO) and disobeyed direct orders to report to the guard room.” He said, adding that when attempts were made to arrest him, he resisted by firing 16 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, posing a potential threat to his fellow personnel.
“The investigation led to Haruna being tried by a General Court Martial (GCM) from 20 December 2022 to 7 February 2023. He faced three charges: Disobedience to Particular Orders, Resistance to Arrest, and Offences in Relation to Public and Service Property, contrary to the Armed Forces Act. Despite initially pleading not guilty, Haruna changed his plea to guilty during the trial.”
The DFI further explain “following deliberations and the presentation of evidence, the GCM sentenced Haruna to a reduction in rank and dismissal with ignominy, which was confirmed by the Chief of Naval Staff on 19 September 2024. The Defence Headquarters emphasized that the ruling was consistent with the Armed Forces Act and aimed to uphold discipline within the ranks.”
The briefing concluded with a reminder of the importance of discipline and the responsible handling of weapons by military personnel, stressing that Haruna’s actions had endangered his colleagues and could not be tolerated.
Ex-Seaman Abbas Haruna: Defence Headquarters Explained Court Martial Verdict
