The Nigerian Army has discharged Private Ruth Ogunleye, who earlier accused some senior officers, of harassing her sexually.
The Army on Tuesday announced her disengagement on medical grounds, following the conclusion of an internal investigation into her claims.
Ogunleye, who made the accusations in January via her TikTok page, had alleged that some senior Nigerian Army officers had sexually harassed her and made her life miserable. She claimed one the officers made multiple attempts to assault her, forcibly confined her to a psychiatric hospital, and administered injections against her will after she rejected his advances.
In response, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, ordered an investigation into the matter. The Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police conducted the inquiry, which Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Army spokesman, stated found no evidence to support Ogunleye’s claims of sexual harassment. The review involved extensive examination of testimonies, facts, and evidence.
“Upon receipt of her initial complaint, the Nigerian Army immediately referred the matter for investigation. The process was conducted in line with established protocols, ensuring a fair and impartial review of the allegations,” Nwachukwu said.
He further disclosed that Ogunleye had been recommended for discharge on medical grounds since 2022 due to concerns over her mental health, which was later confirmed through evaluations conducted at the National Hospital in Abuja.
“Her online and offline behavior raised further concerns about her emotional stability. Medical reports confirmed she was suffering from a condition that made her medically vulnerable,” Nwachukwu added.
The Army decided against disciplinary actions and instead discharged Ogunleye, ensuring she is entitled to a lifetime pension and other benefits.
The Ministry of Women Affairs had previously intervened in the matter when the allegations first surfaced.
