Court Delivers Landmark Ruling in Uyo
An Akwa Ibom State High Court sitting in Uyo has sentenced a dismissed soldier, Corporal Stephen Iweh of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Battalion, Ibagwa in Abak, to death by hanging for the murder of a traveller who had offered him a lift.
The ruling, delivered after months of legal proceedings, brings closure to a case that shocked Nigerians and sparked debates about abuse of trust, military discipline, and public safety.
TJ News Nigeria reports that the presiding judge found Iweh guilty of premeditated murder, ruling that the evidence presented left no reasonable doubt about his culpability. The judgment ordered that he be executed by hanging in accordance with the provisions of Nigerian criminal law.
How the Incident Happened
According to court records, the tragic incident occurred when Corporal Iweh, then serving with the Nigerian Army’s 6 Battalion in Abak, was given a ride by a Good Samaritan traveller. The unsuspecting motorist, acting out of kindness, stopped to offer assistance to the soldier who was in uniform.
Instead of appreciating the gesture, Iweh allegedly turned on his benefactor. He fatally shot the driver during the journey, leaving the victim dead on the spot. Witnesses later confirmed hearing gunshots before discovering the body along the roadside.
The shocking betrayal immediately drew condemnation across Akwa Ibom State and beyond. Rights groups, community leaders, and ordinary Nigerians called for a transparent investigation and prosecution.
Dismissal from the Nigerian Army
Following internal military investigations, Corporal Iweh was dismissed from service. The Nigerian Army confirmed that his action violated the code of conduct and the rules of engagement binding on all personnel.
Military authorities handed him over to the police for prosecution, stressing that the army would not shield any officer or soldier who commits crimes against civilians. His dismissal cleared the path for the Akwa Ibom State Government to charge him under state law.
Court Proceedings and Evidence
During the trial at the Akwa Ibom State High Court in Uyo, prosecutors presented eyewitness accounts, ballistic evidence, and testimonies from law enforcement officials.
Key elements of the prosecution’s case included:
- Eyewitness Testimonies: Residents who arrived at the scene shortly after the incident testified that the soldier was seen leaving the area.
- Forensic Reports: Ballistic experts confirmed that the fatal shot was consistent with the weapon assigned to Iweh while in service.
- Military Confirmation: Nigerian Army representatives appeared in court to confirm his dismissal and handover to civil authorities.
The defense argued unsuccessfully that the incident was accidental and not deliberate. However, the judge ruled that the weight of evidence established intent and premeditation.
Judge’s Final Pronouncement
Delivering judgment, the presiding judge declared that Corporal Stephen Iweh had not only violated the trust of the victim but also betrayed the uniform of the Nigerian Army.
The court ruled:
- That the act was willful and premeditated.
- That the former soldier showed no regard for human life.
- That the law must take its full course to serve as a deterrent.
Accordingly, the court sentenced him to death by hanging, in line with the relevant provisions of the Criminal Code.
Reactions from the Public
The ruling has triggered widespread public reactions:
- Human Rights Advocates hailed the decision as a step towards accountability, stressing that security officers must not be above the law.
- Community Leaders in Abak described the judgment as a relief to residents, who had been demanding justice since the incident.
- Legal Practitioners noted that the ruling reinforces the independence of the judiciary in holding both civilians and uniformed men accountable for violent crimes.
Implications for Military Discipline
The Nigerian Army has repeatedly emphasized discipline and professionalism among its ranks. This case, however, underscores the challenges of curbing individual misconduct that tarnishes the reputation of the institution.
Analysts believe the conviction sends a strong signal to military personnel that the uniform is not a shield against accountability. It also reassures civilians that justice can be served even when crimes involve security operatives.
Broader Concerns on Public Safety in Nigeria
Cases of abuse involving security operatives have occasionally sparked public outcry in Nigeria. Incidents ranging from extortion at checkpoints to extrajudicial killings have raised concerns about the need for stronger oversight and reforms.
This case highlights:
- The importance of civic trust between citizens and security agencies.
- The need for continuous training of personnel in ethics and human rights.
- The role of the judiciary in reinforcing deterrence through timely and firm judgments.
Historical Context of Death Sentences in Nigeria
Nigeria’s legal system still prescribes the death penalty for severe crimes such as armed robbery and murder. Although executions are rarely carried out, courts continue to pronounce capital punishment as a deterrent.
The sentence handed to Iweh adds to the list of recent rulings where former law enforcement or security operatives have faced the full weight of the law for violent crimes.
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Key Takeaways from the Judgment
- A dismissed soldier, Corporal Stephen Iweh, was sentenced to death by hanging.
- He was found guilty of murdering a traveller who gave him a lift.
- The Nigerian Army dismissed him and handed him to civil authorities.
- The court in Uyo ruled that the murder was premeditated.
- The judgment reinforces accountability and strengthens public trust in the justice system.
