Military Officer Bernard Kalu Sentenced to Death for Murder of Colleague, Romantic Partner

In a harrowing case that has rattled Nigeria’s military community, the Nigerian Air Force Court Martial sitting in Makurdi has sentenced Aircraftman Bernard Kalu to death by hanging for the premeditated murder of his colleague and romantic partner, Corporal Oladipupo S.A.T.

The tragic incident occurred at the Corporal and Below Quarters, Compound 9, Air Force Base, Makurdi, where Kalu, driven by jealousy and suspicion of infidelity, broke into Corporal Oladipupo’s residence in the early hours of a Sunday morning. He fatally shot her in the neck at close range and attempted to shoot a male companion in the apartment, but his rifle malfunctioned, allowing the man to overpower and disarm him.

The Judge Advocate, Flight Lieutenant M.A. Umoh, brought an eight-count charge against Kalu, including murder, attempted murder, housebreaking, disobedience of orders, loss of service property, failure to perform military duty, and conduct prejudicial to service discipline.

Despite pleading not guilty to all charges, Kalu was convicted on six counts after the prosecution presented 13 witnesses against three from the defence. 

The defence argued that the prosecution had not proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt and appealed for leniency, citing Kalu’s status as a first-time offender and the sole provider for his family.

The President of the Court, Group Captain Elisha Bindul, condemned the act as a gross violation of military conduct and ethics, underscoring the severity of the offence.

“This judgment should serve as a stern warning to personnel that the Nigerian Air Force will not tolerate acts that compromise discipline, order, and human life,” Captain Bindul stated while delivering the ruling.

The Nigerian Air Force has reiterated its commitment to upholding discipline, justice, and respect for human life within its ranks.