Nigerian Army Investigates Officer for Sexual Abuse Allegation

The Nigerian Army has initiated an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse involving a 13-year-old girl by Cap Etim Essien, a serving officer attached to the Headquarters 3 Division in Jos, Plateau State. This announcement was made by Lt. Col. Olumide Olukoya, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, in a statement released on Saturday.

The Army is taking the allegations seriously and has begun steps to ascertain the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. Olukoya stated that the military maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any conduct that violates the law or service regulations, and any personnel found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary action.

The Army is also cooperating with relevant civil authorities to ensure a thorough investigation in accordance with the law. Furthermore, the Army urged the public to avoid speculation and the spread of unverified information that could affect the ongoing investigation and the privacy of those involved, particularly minors.