The Nigerian Senate has begun deliberations on a new bill seeking to subject decisions of military tribunals to judicial review by conventional courts.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by leading members of the Senate Constitution Review Committee, aims to strengthen oversight over military justice by granting affected officers and civilians the right to appeal tribunal rulings in higher courts.
During plenary on Tuesday, lawmakers argued that while military tribunals serve important disciplinary functions, their decisions must align with constitutional guarantees, particularly the right to fair hearing.
Supporters of the bill noted that the move would prevent alleged abuses within the military justice system and ensure that tribunal verdicts do not operate as final judgments without possible redress.
Opponents, however, cautioned that the reform must not undermine military discipline or operational effectiveness.
The bill has passed its first reading and is expected to undergo further debate in subsequent sittings before being referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for detailed consideration.
If passed, the amendment could significantly reshape how military justice is administered in Nigeria, introducing a new layer of accountability and civilian oversight.
