By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Friday said the General Court-Martial inaugurated to try 36 serving military personnel over alleged mutiny and breaches of national security will ensure a fair, impartial and transparent trial.

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, on Friday in Abuja.

Uba said the court-martial was constituted to try the personnel for alleged attempts aimed at overthrowing the government of the day.

He said the Inauguration of the General Court-Martial was in furtherance of its earlier statement issued on Jan. 26, on the matter.

According to him, the move marks a significant step in reinforcing discipline, accountability and the Armed Forces’ commitment to safeguarding national integrity and constituted authority.

He assured that proceedings would be conducted with the highest standards of fairness and impartiality, with strict adherence to due process to guarantee that justice is served without fear or favour.

“All cases will be addressed within the extant legal frameworks of the military justice system,” it said.

Uba added that it remains resolute in upholding professionalism, discipline and the rule of law, while ensuring that the rights of all personnel are respected and the tenets of fair hearing are upheld.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), earlier reported that the accused officers were brought to the venue of the sitting at the Guards Brigade Scorpion Mess, Asokoro, at about 8:53 a.m. under tight security arrangements.

NAN also reported that journalists were, however, denied access into the courtroom, as the inauguration and trial proceedings were held behind closed doors.

Several civil lawyers were present in the premises ahead of the sitting. (NAN)