Ex-seaman Abbas Haruna dismissed from Navy for multiple military offenses

The Defence Headquarters has announced the sentencing of former Seaman Abbas Haruna after being convicted on multiple charges, including disobedience, resisting arrest, and misuse of public service property.

His conviction was the result of a thorough trial by the Military General Court-Martial, which ultimately ruled for a reduction in his rank and a dismissal from service with disgrace.

Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, made the announcement on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, during a press briefing at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

According to the briefing, Haruna, identified by service number N-5759, violated key sections of the Armed Forces Act, CAF 820, Laws of the Federation, 2004, which govern the conduct of military personnel.

The charges against Haruna stem from an incident during a parade at the coordinating conference for Exercise Iyam Akpatuma. Haruna reportedly interrupted the commanding officer’s address and ignored orders to cease his actions. His defiance escalated when he resisted arrest and recklessly fired 16 rounds of ammunition, putting his colleagues’ lives at risk.

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This grave breach of military discipline led to an immediate investigation, and Haruna was quickly recommended for trial by a military court. His trial, which spanned from December 20, 2022, to February 7, 2023, saw him convicted on all charges.

The court found Haruna guilty of violating Section 56 (1), Section 86 (1), and Section 66 (C) of the Armed Forces Act, which relate to disobedience to orders, resisting lawful arrest, and unauthorized use of public service property.

As a result, Haruna was demoted from Seaman to Ordinary Seaman for Count 1 and dismissed from service for Counts 2 and 3, effective February 7, 2023.

During the trial, Haruna was represented by defense attorneys Barristers Chukwu N. Augustine and Goji Esquire. Although Haruna initially pleaded not guilty, he later changed his plea to guilty, leading to an adjustment in court proceedings.

Despite the guilty plea, the prosecution presented compelling evidence, including testimonies and exhibits, to support the charges.

Brigadier General Gusau highlighted that the evidence was clear and irrefutable. “The general court-martial found the ex-Seaman guilty of all charges. His offenses—disobedience, resisting lawful arrest, and misuse of service property—were proven beyond reasonable doubt,” he said.

Following the guilty verdict, Haruna was held under open arrest at Magadishu Cantonment, where his family was granted visitation rights. His sentence was confirmed by the Chief of Naval Staff on September 19, 2024.

The case serves as a reminder of the high standards of discipline expected in the Nigerian Armed Forces, with any breach being swiftly and severely dealt with to maintain the integrity of the service.