Female Nigerian Soldier Discharged After Harassment Allegations Investigation

The Nigerian Army has discharged Private Ruth Ogunleye following an investigation into her claims of harassment and abuse by senior officers.

Ogunleye had publicly accused Colonel Ishiaku B. Abdulkareem, Colonel G.S. Ogor, and Brigadier General I.B. Solebo of repeated intimidation, physical assault, and unlawful confinement.

Her allegations, which gained attention after a viral social media post in early 2024, included forced medical injections, eviction from her accommodation, and confinement in a psychiatric facility.

She also claimed that refusing advances from Col. Abdulkareem led to career setbacks, including denial of promotions, passes, and other military privileges.

In response, then Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, ordered a formal investigation conducted by the Corps of Military Police.

The review examined testimonies, documents, and evidence presented by Ogunleye. Following the investigation, Col. Abdulkareem was exonerated of all accusations, with the Army affirming his commitment to military discipline and values.

Medical evaluations also indicated that Ogunleye was medically vulnerable, leading to a decision to discharge her on medical grounds rather than pursue disciplinary action.

The Army confirmed that her discharge was in line with prior recommendations and emphasized that the process considered her welfare.

Despite serving fewer than 10 years required for a full pension, Ogunleye was granted 50 percent of a monthly pension for life, along with terminal leave allowances and payments into the Nigerian Army Welfare Insurance Scheme and Benevolent Fund.

The Army accused her of using social media platforms to make defamatory claims against officers, warning that such actions would not be tolerated.

The case has drawn widespread attention from human rights organizations and civil society groups, who have called for transparency and accountability.

Ogunleye has urged the Army to release the full report of the investigation, insisting that her version of events deserves proper recognition.

The incident has sparked broader discussions on how allegations of abuse are managed within the military and highlighted concerns about gender-based harassment, institutional accountability, and the support provided to personnel who raise complaints.