By THE Nigerian Navy has dismissed and sentenced a Naval Lieutenant, SN Obini, to three years’ imprisonment after he was found guilty of engaging in a sexual relationship with a colleague’s wife.
The disciplinary measure, handed down by a Special Court Martial, was formally executed on 29th August 2025 at the Nigerian Navy Institute of Technology (NNIT) Parade Ground in Sapele, Delta State.
According to military authorities, the decision underscores the Navy’s zero-tolerance stance on conduct deemed inimical to discipline and professionalism.
The case has drawn widespread attention, being one of the most high-profile instances of its kind in recent years within the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Obini was convicted on four counts, including the affair, scandalous conduct, and deceiving witnesses.
His dismissal and sentence were backdated to take effect from 23rd November 2024.
The Navy’s court martial board upheld the ruling, stressing that the punishment should serve as a deterrent to other personnel.
Military officials noted that while such affairs are not criminal offences under civilian law—except where coercion is proven—the Armed Forces Act imposes stricter sanctions to preserve discipline within the ranks.
A 2023 Nigerian Navy internal report revealed that around 12 per cent of disciplinary cases within the service arise from “scandalous conduct,” although such offences remain relatively rare.
The outcome, however, has sparked debate over fairness and consistency in enforcing ethical codes within the military, with some observers questioning why no punitive measure was disclosed against the woman involved in the affair.
Analysts suggest the development could catalyse reforms to ensure accountability is applied more evenly across genders in future cases.
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