The Nigerian Army has shown mercy to 66 soldiers facing death sentences by reducing the jail term to 10 years.

The Army disclosed this in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Sani Usman, on Saturday.

“The soldiers were arraigned on several count charges that include criminal conspiracy, conspiracy to commit mutiny, mutiny, attempt to commit an offence (murder), disobedience to particular orders, insubordinate behaviour and false accusation, among others.

“They were tried, discharged on some charges but found guilty and convicted on other charges which included mutiny. Out of the number, 66 were found guilty on some of the count charges and sentenced to death, while five were discharged and acquitted and one was given 28 days imprisonment with hard labour.”

“The directive was carried out to examine the merit of each case. It was on the basis of the review and recommendations that the Chief of Army Staff commuted the death sentences of the 66 soldiers to 10 years jail term. The sentences are to run concurrently.”