Military Court sentences 54 soldiers to death by firing squad

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

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.

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.