The Nigerian Army has commenced an investigation into an allegation of sexual abuse involving a serving officer, Captain Etim Essien, attached to the Headquarters of 3 Division, Jos, Plateau State.

The development followed reports concerning a 13-year-old deaf and non-speaking girl who was allegedly in the care of the officer’s family in Taraba State.

According to reports, the girl is the younger step-sister of Essien’s wife, Blessing, who had reportedly taken custody of the teenager to enable her to attend school.

However, allegations later emerged that the girl had been sexually abused while in the family’s care, resulting in pregnancy and the birth of a child.

The allegations have reportedly attracted the attention of relevant authorities in Taraba State, including the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development and the National Human Rights Commission.

The Nigerian Army, in a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olumide Victor Olukoya, confirmed that it was investigating the matter.

The Army said it was aware of reports circulating online concerning the allegation involving Essien and had initiated appropriate steps to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the reported incident.

It said allegations of sexual abuse, particularly those involving minors and other vulnerable persons, were treated with utmost seriousness.

“As the allegation is currently under process of investigation, it would be inappropriate to make definitive comments on the culpability or otherwise of any individual at this stage,” the Army said.

The military also confirmed that relevant civil authorities were looking into the matter, assuring that it would cooperate fully with them to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation in accordance with extant laws and regulations.

The Army stressed that the investigation would be guided by due process, fairness and the protection of the rights and dignity of all parties involved.

It added that any personnel found, at the conclusion of the investigation, to have acted contrary to the law or established service regulations would be dealt with appropriately.

“The Nigerian Army places a high premium on discipline, professionalism and respect for human dignity,” it said.

The Army urged members of the public to refrain from speculation and the dissemination of unverified information capable of prejudicing the investigation or compromising the privacy and wellbeing of those involved, particularly the minor.

It said further information would be provided as appropriate, subject to the requirements of the law and the integrity of the investigative process.