A civil society organisation known as Citizens Watch Nigeria (CWN) has condemned the recent summon of the COAS, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, by the Nigerian Senate.

In a statement sent to journalists on Tuesday, October 10, the group faulted the action taken by the Senate committee on ethics and privileges, stressing that the matter is subjudice at the National Industrial Court (NIC).

They argued that the laws governing the military worldwide is different from that of civil laws, hence the futility of the Senate summon.

The statement noted that when a personnel takes an oath of office to serve and protect the territorial integrity of the nation, he or she instantly becomes subject to military laws.

 It also noted that the military personnel can only be punished or court marshaled under the law and approved by the highest military authority.

 A petition had been submitted by a retired officer who alleged that he had been dismissed from the army suddenly and without explanation.

 CWN however argued that the said officer, Lt. Col. Abdulfatai Mohammed petitioned the Senate on malicious and compulsory retirement by the army, while he had already on August 12, 2016, filed a suit in the NIC against the COAS and the Nigerian Army, seeking reinstatement which invariably means that the issue now being handled by the Senate is already in court and cannot be entertained.

NAIJ.COM