Army Captain Etim Essien Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Minor In Taraba

A Nigerian Army captain, Etim Essien, is being investigated over allegations that he sexually abused a 13-year-old girl in Taraba State.

The girl, who is reportedly deaf and unable to speak, was allegedly abused several times while she was living under the care of the officer and his family.

The Taraba State Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) are said to have looked into the allegations.

They reportedly called on the Nigerian Army to take appropriate administrative and disciplinary steps over the matter.

However, the Army said an investigation is currently underway to determine what happened.

Olumide Olukoya, acting deputy director of the Army’s 3 Division, said in a statement on Friday that the military was treating the allegation seriously.

“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,” the statement reads.

“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.

“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.

“The Nigerian Army places a high premium on discipline, professionalism and respect for human dignity.

“Members of the public are therefore urged to refrain from speculation, the dissemination of unverified information or any action capable of prejudicing the ongoing investigation or compromising the privacy and wellbeing of the persons involved, particularly any minor.”

The Army spokesperson said appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken against any personnel found to have broken the law or violated military regulations after the investigation is completed.

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