Nigerian Soldier Sentenced to Death for Murder of Tricycle Rider

A Nigerian Army soldier has been sentenced to death by hanging for the murder of a tricycle rider in Bauchi State. Private Lukman Musa of the 3 Division was convicted by a General Court Martial at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, Plateau State, on Thursday, 18th September 2025.

The court, presided over by Brigadier General Liafis Bello, found Musa guilty of murder, culpable homicide, and unlawful possession of ammunition. Evidence presented during the trial revealed that Musa, with an accomplice identified as Oba, lured the victim, Abdulrahman Isa, to his residence under the pretense of assisting him with personal belongings. Musa reportedly struck Isa on the head with a wooden object before strangling him to death. He then concealed the body in a sack and dumped it between Shira and Yala villages, while selling the victim’s tricycle.

Musa was also found in possession of 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition without lawful authority.

In delivering the verdict, Gen. Bello condemned Musa’s actions as “barbaric and heartless,” calling the crime a grave violation of military values and a betrayal of the Army’s duty to protect citizens. “You mercilessly metamorphosed from a defender of citizens to a killer. Your action is an embarrassment and disgrace to the Nigerian Army,” he said.

The court sentenced Musa to death for culpable homicide under Section 220 of the Penal Code. For unlawful possession of ammunition, he received a two-year prison term and was dismissed from the Nigerian Army with ignominy.

Acting Deputy Director of Legal Services of the 3 Division, Major Aminu Mairuwa, stated that the ruling underscores the Army’s commitment to discipline and the administration of justice. “This judgment signifies the Nigerian Army’s resolve to ensure that no personnel operates outside the law or laid down standard operating procedures,” he said.