The Nigerian army’s detention of a female soldier over her allegations of sexual harassment by her superiors is a violation of her human rights as enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution.

Development Diaries reports that Ruth Ogunleye, in a TikTok video, alleged that she was being victimised and maltreated because she refused to give in to her superiors’ sexual advances.

An earlier report by Sahara Reporters disclosed that she had been arrested and flown from Lagos to Abuja.

It is understood that Ogunleye is still in detention, even though the Nigerian army has promised to investigate the allegations.

The detention of the soldier is a blatant violation of basic human rights as enshrined in sections 33, 34, 35, 39, 40 and 42 of the Nigerian constitution.

Development Diaries agrees with the position of the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) and Civil Rights Realisation and Advancement Network (CRRAN), which have insisted that Ogunleye’s detention was unjustified.

This is so because the hallmark of democracy is the respect for the rule of law by all the organs and components of the federation.

The right to seek redress for grievances is a fundamental tenet that should be protected within any organisation, especially within the armed forces.

By detaining the female soldier, the Nigerian army not only stifles her right to speak out against injustice but also sends a chilling message to other potential victims, discouraging them from coming forward.

Also, the incident raises questions about the commitment of the Nigerian army to promoting gender equality and providing equal opportunities for all its personnel. Being a member of the armed forces does not prevent her from exercising her rights, particularly in situations where she has been subjected to injustice and violation.

Development Diaries calls on the Nigerian army to immediately release Ogunleye and ensure it carries out a thorough investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment.