Some of the soldiers court martialed for mutiny in Abuja

Fifty-four soldiers were sentenced to death by firing squad on Wednesday by a Military Court-Martial sitting in Mogadishu Barracks in Abuja, Nigerian capital.

The soldiers who were all based at the newly created 7 Division, Nigerian Army headquartered in Maiduguri include two Corporals, Cpl, nine Lance Corporals, LCpl and 49 Private soldiers.

A competent source within the military high command, who confirmed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said five other soldiers were discharged and acquitted.

“They sentenced 54 to death and acquitted five,” said prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana, following a verdict in the trial that began on October 15 and was conducted behind closed doors.

The soldiers were accused of mutiny , assault , cowardice and refusing to fight Boko-Haram in the North-Eastern part of the country.

In September, 12 soldiers were sentenced to death by firing squad for mutiny and attempted murder of their commanding officer in Maiduguri.

The sentences are, however, subject to confirmation by the appropriate superior authority

However, no official statement has been issued on their conviction.