In a controversial decision, the Nigerian Army has discharged Private Ruth Ogunleye following her accusation of sexual harassment against a senior officer, Colonel I.B. Abdulkareem.
Ogunleye, who had served for three years, claimed that Abdulkareem made repeated advances toward her and, after she rejected them, retaliated by making her professional life difficult.
The Army launched an internal investigation after Ogunleye went public with her allegations, sparking debate over how cases of sexual harassment are handled within the military.
However, after weeks of inquiry, the military panel exonerated Colonel Abdulkareem, citing a lack of sufficient evidence.
In a surprising twist, Ogunleye was discharged from the service for what the military described as “conduct unbecoming of an officer,” which critics have labeled as retaliation for her accusations.
Advocates for women's rights and transparency in the military have condemned the decision, calling for an independent review of the case and reform in how harassment claims are investigated in the armed forces.
Ogunleye's discharge has reignited discussions on the treatment of women in the military, particularly around power dynamics and the culture of silence surrounding harassment claims.
While Colonel Abdulkareem has resumed his duties, Ogunleye has vowed to seek justice through the courts, arguing that her dismissal is a clear case of victimization.
The Nigerian Army has yet to issue further statements on the matter, but the case has drawn widespread attention, both locally and internationally, raising questions about institutional accountability.
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