In a disturbing case of alleged military brutality, two university graduates, Master Vershima Mker and Miss Lami Jennifer Iorvihi, are seeking justice after they were reportedly assaulted by military personnel in Abuja.
The victims, through their legal representatives at Tom Uja & Co., have filed a petition with the Chief of Army Staff, calling for the immediate dismissal of Major General G.S. Mohammed and Corporal A. Abubakar. In addition, they are demanding a compensation of ₦150 million for the trauma they endured.
The incident took place in Gwarinpa, on 3rd Avenue, while Mker and Iorvihi were visiting friends and family in preparation for an upcoming wedding. According to the petition, the trouble began when Major General Mohammed and his convoy, using blaring sirens, arrived at a crowded area and demanded passage despite the narrow space. The convoy allegedly forced its way through, sparking a confrontation with the victims.
The petitioners claim that the soldiers violently dragged them out of their vehicle, subjected them to physical assault, and left them with injuries. The situation escalated when they were reportedly detained at a police station without cause and were subjected to further mistreatment.
The petition stresses the severe physical and psychological toll the incident has had on the victims, describing the treatment as both inhumane and unjust. Mker and Iorvihi are calling for accountability, hoping their case will lead to greater awareness of such abuses and prompt the necessary actions to prevent further occurrences.
Tom Uja & Co. argued that the victims had committed no crime to warrant such aggression, and the ordeal has left lasting impacts on their well-being. “Our clients were merely visiting relatives when the convoy, led by Major General G.S. Mohammed, accosted them. The brutality they suffered is unacceptable, and we demand accountability,” the letter reads.
The solicitors stressed the urgency of their demands, which include not only the dismissal of the implicated officers but also monetary compensation to address the grievous harm inflicted. The case has sparked public concern over the use of force by military personnel and the implications of unchecked authority.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the Nigerian Army for a response to the accusations and the measures they may take to ensure justice and accountability within their ranks.
