A couple, Mr. Vershima Mker and Ms. Lami Jennifer Iorvihi, have accused a senior military officer, Major General G.S. Mohammed, and his aide, Corporal A. Abubakar, of assaulting and unlawfully detaining them after a road altercation in Gwarimpa, Abuja.
The victims are calling for the dismissal of the officer and a compensation of N150 million, citing abuse of power and gross human rights violations.
According to reports, the incident occurred when Mr. Mker overtook Major General Mohammed’s convoy while driving on 3rd Avenue, Gwarinpa. Allegedly infuriated, the military officer intercepted the couple, forcibly removed them from their vehicle, and subjected them to physical abuse.
In a petition filed through their legal counsel, Tom Uja & Co., the couple alleged that after the assault, they were handcuffed, shoved into the trunk of a vehicle, and taken to the Gwarinpa Police Station. “At the station, the General ordered the police to detain us indefinitely until he instructed otherwise,” the couple stated.
The legal representative further detailed the ordeal in a statement: “Our clients, university graduates preparing for their wedding, suffered severe bodily injuries and psychological trauma. The Major General and his aide acted in a manner unbefitting of their positions, treating our clients worse than prisoners of war.”
Photographs and video evidence, provided by the victims, allegedly show Major General Mohammed and Corporal Abubakar personally beating the couple. Ms. Iorvihi, who attempted to record the incident, was reportedly targeted and her phone confiscated.
Details from the Petition
The petition outlines the events leading up to the assault, stating: “Our clients had pulled over to allow the convoy to pass, but were still blocked by the Major General, who proceeded to beat and insult them. The actions resulted in serious injuries, with Mr. Mker sustaining rib and eye injuries requiring foreign medical attention, and Ms. Iorvihi suffering a fractured finger.”
The petition adds: “Our clients were detained for eight hours under the General’s orders and were only released after being forced to write an apology under duress. This gross violation of their rights has left lasting physical and emotional damage.”
The legal counsel warned of further legal action if their demands are not met. “If by close of business on November 18, 2024, the Nigerian Army fails to dismiss the officers and pay the compensation, we will not only pursue legal action but also release the video evidence publicly,” the statement read.
The couple is appealing to the military hierarchy and the public for justice. “This incident underscores the urgent need for accountability and respect for human rights, even by those in positions of authority,” Uja concluded.
