Female Soldier Allegedly Beaten, Sent to Psychiatric Hospital After Exposing Harassment
Lance Corporal Philomena Nnamoko, stationed at Ilese Sappers Barracks, Division 2, Ogun State, has reportedly faced severe repercussions after speaking out about harassment and sexual advances from her senior colleagues. Following an interview with Sunday PUNCH on January 28, 2024, Nnamoko alleged that she was subjected to physical assault and subsequently sent to Yaba Psychiatric Hospital.
According to Emmanuel Brown, Nnamoko’s son and her only child, he received distressing news on Sunday night about his mother’s assault. Rushing to the Medical Reception Station inside the barracks, he found her unconscious, with visible bruises on her body. Brown recounted how Nnamoko explained being beaten up by fellow soldiers, leaving him deeply troubled by her condition.
On Monday morning, Brown discovered that his mother had been transferred to Yaba Psychiatric Hospital, prompting confusion and concern about the circumstances leading to her hospitalization.
Collaborating Brown’s testimony, Nnamoko’s lawyer, Kayode Oshiyemi, asserted that his client was assaulted by a senior officer and falsely labeled as mentally unstable to justify the attack. Oshiyemi emphasized Nnamoko’s stability, citing her consistent communication and demeanor during their professional relationship.
Similarly, Nnamoko’s twin brother, Philip Edwin, attested to her mental well-being, affirming that they had interacted recently without any indication of mental illness. Edwin expressed dismay at the treatment his sister endured, attributing the conflict to underlying issues within the military.
Efforts to obtain a response from the army’s spokesperson, Onyema Nwachukwu, were unsuccessful as of the time of this report.
The disturbing allegations raise concerns about the treatment of female soldiers and highlight the challenges faced by those who speak out against harassment and abuse within the military.
