By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Nigerian Navy on Tuesday confirmed the detention of one Petty Officer Abubukar A.J since 29 November 2020, saying he is being court martialled for alleged involvement in arms theft and sale.
The confirmation is in reaction to a news story in the January 1st, 2022 edition of the Vanguard newspaper over his detention.
The news story claimed that the rating’s health has been deteriorating since his detention over an undisclosed offence and that his family has suffered untold hardship arising therefrom.
According to a press release by Navy’s Director of Information, Commodore Suleman Dahun, the rating is in good health.
He said: “Contrary to the impression created in the Vanguard news story, the rating is hale and hearty and has been attending the ongoing court-martial.
Therefore, members of the public are enjoined to disregard the news story and the attempt to stir public sympathy/sentiments over this issue.
“It is to be noted that a court-martial is a routine military disciplinary process constituted by a competent authority to try personnel involved in acts of gross misconduct.”
