Dehumanisation Of Female Corps Member: NAWOJ Calls For Stiffer Action Against Army Officer’s “Disgraceful Act”

By Daniel Dafe

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), has condemned in the strongest terms, the dehumanisation of a female Corps member – Ezeiruaku Ifeyinwa Fidelia by a female military officer, Lt Chika Viola Anale at the 13 Brigade Headquarters, Calabar, Cross River state capital.

A statement signed by Ladi Bala, President, NAWOJ, said “it is appalling that the deliberate act of barbaric infringement on the human right of the NYSC Corps member –
Ezeiruaku Ifeyinwa Fidelia by a female Army officer did not only negate professional ethics of the Nigerian Army, the act is also disgraceful, unwarranted and an insult on the dignity of womanhood.”

She continued: “It is disappointing to note that while frantic efforts are being carried out by the government and other critical stakeholders to address the menace of sexual and gender based violence, a female officer in this 21st century could engage in such an abusive and violent act.”

Adding: “This is unacceptable ridiculous, provocative and condemnable in every material particular.”

“While NAWOJ applauds the quick response of the Nigerian Army in wading in to address the unfortunate development as well as condemned the action of its officer which has helped in dousing tension, it is pertinent to call on the military high command to ensure that stringent measures are taken against the Officer to serve as deterent to others,” saying that “the officer should be made to tender an unreserved public apology to the victim as well as pay compensation for the humiliation the Corps member suffered.”

ALSO READ: Lagos Police Rescue Man Tied To Stake Over N4.5M Debt

Continuing, NAWOJ president said “the investigation of the incident should be hastened and concluded soonest as Nigerians await to hear the outcome,” saying that “the unfortunate incident must not be allowed to be swept under the carpet.”