The Nigeria Army has reacted to allegation of sexual harassment against a Brigadier General,two Colonels by Miss Ruth Ogunleye,a female Soldier.
In a statement on Friday,January 12,2024 by Director of Army Public Relations,Major General Onyema Nwachukwu which was titled
FEMALE SOLDIER’S CLAIM OF MALTREATMENT BY SENIOR OFFICERS: NIGERIAN ARMY TO INVESTIGATE
The Nigerian Army (NA) noted that it has been inundated with audiovisuals making the rounds on social media of the unprofessional conduct of a female soldier in mufti, who claimed to have been maltreated by some senior officers.
The Army Public Relations said It is instructive to state that considering the gravity of the allegations, NA as a disciplined force will conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
Major General Nwachukwu further explained that it is crucial to point out that contrary to the claims made in the video, the soldier in question has not exhausted the laid down procedure for seeking redress in the NA.
” This is aside Human Rights and Gender Desks established in Army Headquarters and across NA formations, where complaints about human rights and gender issues are also entertained. The NA remains a professional force that self regulates and conducts its activities in adherence to established rules and ethics, while upholding the highest standards of discipline amongst personnel. We therefore encourage all personnel to always utilize the established channels for addressing grievances and concerns as a member of a noble and disciplined force.
“We assure the general public that the NA as an institution is committed to upholding the integrity and morals of its personnel and as such appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings of the investigation” Major General Nwachukwu said.
The statement further urged the public to allow the investigative process to take its course and refrain from making hasty judgments as the NA remains dedicated to serving the nation with honor and integrity.
Recall that the female soldier,Miss Ogunleye had accused a Brigadier General and two colonels of seizing her salary,tarnishing her image and making life unbearable for her because she rejected sexual advances of the senior Army officers.
Miss Ogunleye had in the viral video told Nigerians to hold the Brigadier General and the two Colonels responsible if anything happens to her.
Chief of Army Staff Lt.General Taoreed Lagbaja