Get Guardian on GoogleThe Nigerian Army has announced the detention of Private Christopher Emmanuel, who is accused of assaulting a female vendor, Doshima, in Kula, Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident, which occurred on May 6 and was reported on May 8, is under investigation, according to a statement released by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 401 Special Forces Brigade in Makurdi, Abdullahi Osabo, on Sunday.
Osabo stated that the assault may have arisen from a dispute over an unpaid debt, with claims suggesting that Emmanuel alleged the woman insulted him during a phone conversation. This confrontation reportedly escalated into a physical altercation, prompting the investigation.
“Private Christopher Emmanuel is currently in custody, and a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident,” Osabo said.
He stressed that the Nigerian Army has a zero-tolerance policy for human rights abuses, and disciplinary action will be taken based on the investigation’s findings.
The Army’s leadership assured both the public and the victim that justice would be served according to the military’s standards.
“OPWS strongly condemns any form of indiscipline or human rights abuse by its personnel,” Osabo added.
He also urged the public to report any abuses by Nigerian Army personnel to the Human Rights Desk helpline, advising against airing grievances on social media. The Army assured that all reports would be taken seriously and investigated, with sanctions imposed on any personnel found guilty of misconduct.
The Army continues to stress its commitment to maintaining discipline and upholding human rights standards.
