The Nigerian Army has opened an investigation into an officer identified as Capt. Etim Essien, attached to the Headquarters of 3 Division in Jos, Plateau State, following an allegation that he sexually abused a 13-year-old girl.
The investigation was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 3 Division, Lt. Col. Olumide Olukoya, after reports of the alleged incident began circulating online.
According to Olukoya, the military has moved to establish the facts surrounding the allegation. “The Nigerian Army takes all allegations of sexual abuse, particularly those involving minors and other vulnerable persons, with utmost seriousness. Accordingly, appropriate steps have been initiated to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the reported incident,” he said.
Olukoya stressed that no conclusions about guilt should be drawn while the matter remains under investigation. “As the allegation is currently under process of investigation, it would be inappropriate to make definitive comments on the culpability or otherwise of any individual at this stage. The Nigerian Army remains committed to due process, fairness and the protection of the rights and dignity of all parties involved,” he said.
The Army spokesperson also confirmed that civil authorities are separately looking into the case, and pledged the military’s cooperation. “The Nigerian Army is also aware that the relevant civil authorities are looking into the matter and will cooperate fully with them to ensure that the allegation is thoroughly and transparently investigated in accordance with extant laws and regulations,” he added.
Olukoya said the Army maintains a zero-tolerance stance on misconduct that breaches the law or service regulations. “The Nigerian Army places a high premium on discipline, professionalism and respect for human dignity. Upon the conclusion of the investigation, any personnel found to have acted contrary to the law or established service regulations will be dealt with appropriately,” he said.
The Army also appealed to the public to avoid speculation or spreading unverified information that could compromise the investigation, and asked for particular caution in protecting the privacy and welfare of the minor involved throughout the process.
Allegations of sexual abuse involving a minor are generally treated as serious criminal matters under Nigerian law, which can carry significant penalties upon conviction. In cases involving military personnel, such allegations are typically examined both through internal military disciplinary processes and by civil law enforcement or judicial authorities, with the possibility of court-martial or criminal prosecution depending on the outcome of investigations.
Capt. Etim Essien has not been convicted of any offence, and the allegation against him remains under investigation by both military and civil authorities. Further updates are expected once the probe concludes and any findings are made public.
Source: The Punch
