The Supreme Court has overturned the conviction of former General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Sokoto, Maj. Gen. Hakeem Otiki, ending a five-year legal battle with the Nigerian Army.
In a unanimous ruling by a five-member panel, the apex court dismissed the Army’s appeal and upheld the Court of Appeal’s December 2024 decision discharging and acquitting Otiki.
The case stemmed from July 2019, when Otiki, then GOC 8 Division, directed soldiers to move ₦100 million by road from Sokoto to Abuja for furniture in renovated military quarters. The money later went missing.
A General Court Martial convicted Otiki on June 16, 2020, dismissing him from the Army with disgrace and dishonour, reducing his rank to Brigadier General, and issuing a severe reprimand. The Army Council confirmed the sentence on Nov. 24, 2020.
Otiki took his case to the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, contending that he did not steal the money, promptly reported the loss, and personally refunded it.
Israel Olorundare, his counsel, also said the projects tied to the funds had been completed or were near completion.
On Dec. 5, 2024, the higher court dismissed the court martial proceedings, discharged and acquitted Otiki, restored him to the rank of Major General, and ordered payment of all salaries, allowances, and entitlements, including refunded monies.
The Army approached to the Supreme Court in appeal SC/CR/96/2025.
On Friday, the apex court affirmed the Court of Appeal’s judgment and resolved the matter in Otiki’s favour.