By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto
SOKOTO — Prominent figures from Nigeria’s legal, academic and political circles on Saturday gathered in Sokoto for the unveiling of a major publication on military jurisprudence, “Military Law in Nigeria: A Quick Reference Guide to Practice and Procedure.”
The book, authored by Professor Ibrahim Abdullahi, SAN, and legal practitioner Rashidat Mohammed, was presented in honour of the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, in recognition of his contributions to the legal profession and national service.
The event, held at the Command Guest Inn along Gusau Road, attracted a cross-section of dignitaries, reflecting growing national interest in strengthening military justice systems and professional legal practice.
In his welcome address, host Barrister A.Y. Abubakar described the publication as a practical guide for legal practitioners, military personnel and scholars navigating the complexities of military law. He said the authors simplified key legal principles to make them accessible to judges, lawyers and members of the armed forces involved in disciplinary and court-martial proceedings.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Chief Judge of Sokoto State, Justice Sa’idu Mohammed Sifawa, commended the honouree, noting that his contributions to the legal profession continue to inspire younger lawyers. He emphasised the importance of a strong legal framework in promoting discipline and accountability within the armed forces.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, represented by the District Head of Kilgori, also praised the initiative, urging scholars to sustain research efforts that strengthen national institutions and uphold the rule of law.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu, represented by his deputy, Idris Mohammad Gobir, lauded the authors for advancing legal scholarship, describing such intellectual contributions as vital to good governance and institutional accountability.
Chairman of the occasion and former Sokoto State Governor, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, described the book as a significant resource for both military and civilian legal practitioners in addressing contemporary legal challenges.
Other dignitaries at the ceremony included the Sambo Wali Junaidu, Waziri of Sokoto; Vice-Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Professor Bashir Garba; judges, Khadis, local government officials, and civil servants.
Legal experts at the event said the book bridges the gap between military operations and legal compliance, particularly in areas relating to court-martial procedures, discipline and the protection of fundamental rights within the armed forces.
Reviewer Professor Ahmed Okene of the Nigerian Defence Academy disclosed that the publication spans over 300 pages across eight chapters, covering critical aspects of military law, practice and procedure.
The unveiling is seen as a major contribution to Nigeria’s legal scholarship and a step toward reinforcing the role of the rule of law within the country’s security and defence institutions.
In his remarks, Goronyo expressed appreciation to Senator Wamakko for his mentorship and support, and commended the authors for the honour bestowed on him.
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