Nigerian Army clears officer of sexual harassment allegations

The Nigerian Army has cleared Colonel Ishiaku Abdulkareem of all sexual harassment, intimidation, and maltreatment charges made by former soldier Private Ruth Ogunleye.

The announcement came from Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, during a press briefing in Abuja.

Ogunleye had accused Abdulkareem of sexual harassment and attempted sexual assault in a viral video earlier this year.

The Army launched a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, reviewing all available evidence and testimony.

The investigation concluded that Colonel Abdulkareem did not commit any of the offences.

The Army stressed that Abdulkareem is a disciplined and professional officer who upholds the military’s values.

The Army also revealed that Ogunleye had been recommended for discharge on medical grounds since 2022 due to mental health concerns. She remained in service to receive treatment.

However, her conduct online and offline raised further questions about her mental well-being. The Army referred her for medical evaluation, which confirmed she was suffering from a condition that made her medically vulnerable.

Although the Army could have taken disciplinary action against Ogunleye for her misconduct, it chose compassion and leniency.

She was discharged from service in June with a 50 per cent disability claim, entitling her to a monthly pension for life.

The Army warned that it will not tolerate defamation of its personnel.

The Army spokesperson said the organisation maintains high professionalism standards and takes its personnel’s welfare seriously.

He added that all allegations are handled thoroughly and impartially.