Abuja, Sept. 24, 2024 (TheGavel) – The Nigerian Army has officially cleared Colonel Ishiaku Abdulkareem of allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and maltreatment made by former soldier Pte. Ruth Oguleye. This announcement was made by the Director of Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.
The allegations surfaced in January when Oguleye, a member of the Army Medical Corps, released a viral video claiming that Col. Abdulkareem had sexually harassed her and attempted to rape her. In response to these serious claims, the Nigerian Army initiated an investigation, which was conducted by the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police.
Maj.-Gen. Nwachukwu emphasized that the investigation adhered to established protocols, ensuring fairness and impartiality. He stated, “The investigation concluded that Colonel I.B. Abdulkareem did not commit the offence of sexual harassment as alleged by Ex-Private Ruth Ogunleye. The findings were definitive and based on objective evaluation of the available information.”
The Army further noted that Col. Abdulkareem has consistently upheld the values of the institution throughout his service. Nwachukwu revealed that Oguleye had been recommended for medical discharge since 2022 but was retained to receive necessary medical treatment before transitioning out of service.
As the investigation progressed, concerns about Oguleye’s conduct emerged, raising questions about her mental health. The Army referred her for a medical evaluation at the National Hospital in Abuja, following initial assessments by the Army Medical Corps. The evaluation confirmed that she was suffering from a condition that rendered her medically vulnerable.
Nwachukwu explained that, despite the potential for disciplinary action due to Oguleye’s misconduct, the Army chose to prioritize her health. Consequently, she was discharged from service in June with a 50 percent disability claim, which entitles her to a monthly pension for life. Additionally, she received her Terminal Leave Allowance and contributions to the Nigerian Army Welfare Insurance Scheme (NAWIS).
Despite her discharge, Nwachukwu stated that Oguleye has continued to spread “false narratives” against Col. Abdulkareem and other senior officers, engaging in what he described as cyberbullying and defamation. He cautioned the public to regard her allegations as unfounded, given her established mental health condition.
“The Nigerian Army stands firm in its commitment to maintaining discipline and order within its ranks. Col. Abdulkareem is a dedicated officer who has served our nation with honour and distinction,” Nwachukwu added. He reiterated that the Army would not tolerate defamation of its personnel based on falsehoods and ulterior motives.
In closing, Nwachukwu assured that the Nigerian Army operates with high standards of professionalism, prioritizing the welfare of its personnel while thoroughly investigating all allegations with the seriousness they deserve. (NAN)
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