Nigerian soldier dismissed after alleging rape hits out

A former soldier in the Nigerian military, Ruth Ogunleye, has spoken out against her dismissal after accusing senior officers of rape and sexual harassment. In a recent video posted on TikTok, Ogunleye expressed her outrage over the treatment she received following her allegations, which initially sparked widespread attention and outrage in Nigeria.

In January, Ogunleye took to social media to detail her traumatic experiences, alleging that she had been raped by a general and two colonels. Her claims prompted discussions at high levels, including a meeting between Nigeria’s women’s minister and the army chief. The public response to her accusations highlighted the urgent need to address issues of sexual violence and harassment within the military.

However, after an investigation by the Nigerian Army, Ogunleye’s allegations were dismissed. The military stated that she was discharged for medical reasons, citing a condition that allegedly made her vulnerable, although they did not elaborate on the specifics. This conclusion has raised further questions and led Ogunleye to release a second video demanding transparency in the investigation.

In her recent video, Ogunleye recounted her harrowing experience, stating, “On January 9th, 2024, I came on social media to complain of how I was harassed, how I was raped, and how I was injected and put inside a casket.” She also described being threatened with a gun, handcuffed, and detained in an office for several days.

Ogunleye called on the Nigerian Army to publish the findings of the investigation publicly, asserting that “the world deserves to know what transpired.” Her remarks emphasize the need for accountability and transparency in handling such serious allegations.

General Onyema Nwachukwu, the army spokesman, had earlier revealed the outcome of the investigation, stating that it concluded Colonel I.B. Abdulkareem did not commit the alleged offenses. He accused Ogunleye of spreading false narratives against the colonel and engaging in cyberbullying and defamation on social media.

In light of these developments, women’s rights activists have demanded an independent investigation into Ogunleye’s allegations. Hadiza Ado, founder of the Women and Children Initiative, criticized the military’s handling of the situation, pointing out that the army has a history of avoiding public scrutiny. “If the army’s investigation states she had a medical condition affecting her, how long was she in service with that condition? Why only now that she has been dismissed?” she questioned.

Ogunleye’s case is not an isolated incident but rather highlights the pervasive issues of sexual violence and harassment faced by women in the military. Many advocates argue that the military must take such allegations seriously and ensure that survivors feel safe coming forward without fear of retribution.

The public outcry surrounding Ogunleye’s allegations underscores a growing demand for reform within the Nigerian military. Activists are calling for better protections for female soldiers and more robust mechanisms for reporting and addressing sexual misconduct.

As the dialogue around Ogunleye’s case continues, it serves as a reminder of the broader societal challenges related to gender-based violence. The need for systemic change within military institutions is urgent, and advocates are pushing for reforms that prioritize the safety and dignity of all service members.

Ogunleye’s courage in sharing her story has sparked conversations about accountability and the treatment of women within the armed forces. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for how sexual harassment and assault allegations are addressed in Nigeria’s military and beyond.

The fight for justice and equality continues as more voices join the chorus calling for transparency and accountability in the face of such grave accusations. As Ogunleye advocates for her case to be heard, her story resonates with many, urging a collective demand for change and reform within the military establishment.