DHQ Dissmisses Seaman For Disobeying Military Orders

The Defence Headquarters has announced the dismissal of Seaman Haruna Abbas, a naval rating, for disobeying lawful military orders.

Addressing newsmen in Abuja, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said the dismissal was approved by the Chief of Naval Staff, Emmanuel Ogalla, following the court-martial’s verdict on September 19, 2024.

General Gusau explained that Abbas faced a court-martial on three charges: disobedience to orders, resisting arrest, and damaging service property.

According to him, these charges were in violation of Sections 56 (1), 86 (1), and 66 (c) of the Armed Forces Act, CAP A20, Laws of the Federation 2004 to which Abbas pleaded guilty to all  during his arraignment.

“Ex-Seaman Abbas Haruna M5759 was arraigned on three counts: disobedience to particular orders, resistance to arrest, and offenses involving public and service property, contrary to Sections 56 (1), 86 (1), and 66 (c) of the Armed Forces Act (AFA), CAP A20, Laws of the Federation 2004,” said General Gusau.

The court reached its decision after reviewing the prosecution’s evidence, witness testimonies, and Abbas’ guilty plea.

“Based on the gravity of the offenses, the guilty plea, and the mitigating circumstances presented, the court reached its verdict following legal advice from the Judge Advocate”.

General Gusau further explained that Abbas, who was placed under open arrest while awaiting the ratification of the judgment, was found guilty and dismissed from service, effective February 7, 2023.

“Ex-Seaman Haruna was sentenced to a reduction in rank on Count One and dismissed with ignominy on Counts Two and Three, effective February 7, 2023”.

Aisha Adesanya, Edited By Grace Namiji