According to the Nigerian Army, an inquiry into allegations of sexual assault involving a serving officer, Captain Etim Essien, who is presently stationed at Headquarters 3 Division, Jos, has been initiated.The aforementioned officer is accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old deaf and non-speaking girl, getting her pregnant, and fathering a child with her while the minor was purportedly in Taraba State under the care of his family. According to SaharaReporters, the victim is Blessing Essien, the Captain’s wife’s younger step-sister.
In response to the news, the Nigerian Army said in a statement on Saturday, September 12, that it takes all claims of sexual abuse very seriously, especially those involving children and other vulnerable people. Consequently, the proper actions havebeen initiated to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the reported incident.
The military stated that it would be improper to remark definitively on any person’s guilt at this point because the accusation is still being investigated. According to the statement, the Nigerian Army is still dedicated to upholding justice, due process, and the rights and dignity of all parties. The Nigerian Army claims that it is also aware that the appropriate civil authorities are investigating the incident and that it will work closely with them to guaranty that the allegation is completely and openly probed in compliance with current laws and regulations.
