A military court in Abuja has convicted Olusegun Adeniyi, former theatre commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, and demoted him by at least three years.
Adeniyi, a major-general, in March made a video that circulated the social media space, complaining about inadequate weapons for troops combating Boko Haram insurgents.
He was then removed as commander of Operation Lafiya Dole and transferred to the Bigerian Army Resources Centre in Abuja, a move the Nigerian Army said was routine.
He was later moved to the army headquarters, still in Abuja, and made to face a court martial.
A court martial is a legal proceeding for military officers, it is similar to a civilian court trial.
Ruling on the matter on Monday, the military tribunal found Adeniyi guilty of violating military social media guidelines and ordered that he be demoted by at least three years.
Tokunbo Obanla, Adeniyi’s military aide, who was prosecuted alongside the general, was also found guilty and sentenced to 28 days in jail with hard labour.
Obanla, whom Adeniyi said was in possession of his phone at the time of the incident, reportedly admitted to posting the video on social media in error.
Both convictions are subject to confirmation by the military board before it can take effect.
Adeniyi’s lawyers said they would appeal the tribunal judgement before higher military authorities.
