According to a report by Punch on January 31, 2024, Lt Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, has issued a directive ordering all Nigerian Army officers to refrain from making further comments regarding the allegations of maltreatment made by a female soldier named Ruth Ogunleye.
The directive was communicated through a military signal dated January 30, 2024, signed by Brig. Gen. P.O Alimikhena on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
Punch Online obtained a copy of the signal titled ‘Need To Desist From Further Official Comments On The Allegation Made By 19NA/78/1699F PTE Ruth Ogunleye In A Viral TikTok Video On Social Media.’
In a TikTok video that recently went viral, Ruth Ogunleye, the female soldier, accused her superiors, specifically identifying Col. IB Abdulkareem, Col. GS Ogor, and Brig. Gen. IB Solebo, of making her life miserable.
She specifically held Col. IB Abdulkareem responsible for the difficulties she has faced during her time in the Army.
The memo restricting soldiers from further commenting on the matter stated,
“The named soldier of HQ NAMC publicly raised allegations of maltreatment and acts suggesting harassment against three senior officers through her TikTok social media account.
Accordingly, the COAS directed HQ NAMCP to conduct a detailed investigation of the allegations raised by the soldier. To this end, I am directed to respectfully convey the COAS directive that no further official comments on the subject should be made pending the outcome of HQ NAMCP investigation.”
The memo further urged commanders at all levels to caution their personnel against making official comments on the allegations raised by the soldier.
Earlier, the Nigerian Army had promised to investigate Ruth Ogunleye’s allegations. Maj. Gen. Nwachukwu Onyema, the Director of Army Public Relations, stated that the investigation would determine the veracity of her claims.
Onyema also criticized the female soldier, stating that she had not sought redress according to the army’s rules.
The Nigerian Army assured the public that it is committed to upholding the integrity and values of its personnel and that appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
The public was urged to allow the investigative process to run its course and refrain from making hasty judgments. The Nigerian Army reiterated its dedication to serving the nation with honor and integrity.