NIGERIAN ARMY INAUGURATES COURT MARTIAL TO CURB INDISCIPLINE
He enjoined members of the GCM to base the Court Martial on due process and in conformity with extant civil and military laws especially the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Armed Forces Act.
The General Officer noted that,in view of this, members of the court are expected to painstakingly ensure that every step or action taken in the trial process is in conformity with the provisions of the laws.
He emphasized that military justice is not an instrument of discipline, rather it is used to promote discipline, noting that “the president and members of this GCM have been carefully appointed considering their ranks, seniority, general service knowledge and wealth of experience to ensure fair trial and enhance the course of justice.
“They are men of integrity and character, therefore I have no doubt in their ability to dispense justice fairly”.
Penpushing further reports that,Azinta reiterated that justice as confirmed by late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa is a three-way traffic, justice for the accused, justice for the victim and justice for the state.
He added, “It is equally important to recall that both Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution as amended and Section 122 of the Armed Forces Act 2004, stressing that expeditious and speedy trial provides basis for trial.
“This is one of the advantages of a GCM, this advantage will be lost if we allow delays on unnecessary technicalities to characterize the day to day proceedings of the court.
He however assured all the accused persons seated that the court will be fair and just, adding that the president and members of the court as well as the prosecution and defense counsels that, as Ministers in the temple of justice, they must all be seen to advance the course of justice in all your actions and dealings.
The army boss urged all its men to live above expectations and have it in their minds that doing otherwise will have implications on the dispensation of justice in the Nigerian Army, and that it is better to set ten criminals free than to convict one innocent person.
