General Christopher Musa OFR, Nigeria’s Chief of Defense Staff, has confirmed the possibility of reviewing the case of Private Ruth Ogunleye, who was dismissed following her sexual harassment allegations; however, he expressed confidence that the outcome of such a review would remain unchanged.
The Nigerian Army had dismissed Private Ruth Ogunleye following her allegations of sexual harassment against a senior officer, Colonel I.B. Abdulkareem. The Army stated that Ogunleye’s discharge was due to medical reasons, as determined after their investigation.
Additionally, Major-General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Army spokesperson, clarified that the senior officer was found not guilty of the accusations. However, Ogunleye contested the investigation’s validity, asserting that she was never called to appear before any investigative or military panel to defend her mental health.
In an interview with ARISE NEWS on Thursday, General Musa emphasized the seriousness with which mental health issues are treated in the military and acknowledged the possibility of reviewing the case of the dismissed female officer but expressed confidence that the outcome would remain unchanged.
He said, “Review- of course- it’s possible to have a review. I’m sure it will not come out any different. That I can guarantee you.”
The General reiterated that a thorough investigation had been conducted, revealing that Private Ruth Ogunleye exhibited signs of mental instability, despite occasionally appearing coherent.
The Chief of Defence staff underscored that “we fight for our men” but acknowledged that there are certain limitations to their efforts.
He stated, “This same lady you are talking about did not start this year. It has been ongoing for a very long time.
“Everybody had tried to assist the lady to ensure that she was properly taken care of.
“We tried to assist her, but one thing people don’t understand is that everybody that tried to help her, she came after the person and maligned them.”
Additionally, the General emphasized that the military does not shield its personnel, affirming that disciplinary action is taken when offences occur, stating, “you do well, you’re rewarded, you do badly, you get punished.”
Frances Ibiefo
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