By our reporter 13.9.2026
The Nigeria Army said it is investigating allegations of sexual abuse by a serving officer, Captain Etim Essien, attached to the Headquarters of 3 Division, Jos, Plateau State.
Captain Essien allegedly impregnated his wife’s 13-year-old deaf and dumb step-sister left in the care of the officer’s family in Taraba State.
The allegations have reportedly attracted the attention of relevant authorities in Taraba State, including the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development and the National Human Rights Commission.
The Nigerian Army, in a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olumide Victor Olukoya, confirmed that it was investigating the matter.
The Army said it was aware of reports circulating online concerning the allegation involving Essien and had initiated appropriate steps to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the reported incident.
It said allegations of sexual abuse, particularly those involving minors and other vulnerable persons, were treated with utmost seriousness.
“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 Army said.
The military also confirmed that relevant civil authorities were looking into the matter, assuring that it would cooperate fully with them to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation in accordance with extant laws and regulations.
The Army stressed that the investigation would be guided by due process, fairness and the protection of the rights and dignity of all parties involved.
It added that any personnel found, at the conclusion of the investigation, to have acted contrary to the law or established service regulations would be dealt with appropriately.
“The Nigerian Army places a high premium on discipline, professionalism and respect for human dignity,” it said.
