The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has cautioned members of the public against the publication and dissemination of unverified allegations on social media following a video circulated on TikTok by Ms Ruth Ogunleye concerning the Commandant of the Academy, Major General OT Olatoye.
The Academy, in a statement issued on Saturday by its Public Relations Officer, Major Njoka Irabor, said Ogunleye’s video contained claims concerning an issue involving a staff member of the institution, Mr Abubakar Isah.
According to the statement, the dispute between Ogunleye and Isah was related to social media infringement, but alleged that she brought the Commandant into the matter through what it described as false allegations and attempted defamation of character.
The NDA said while it recognised the right of individuals to express their views and pursue legitimate grievances, such rights should be exercised through appropriate institutional and legal channels.
It cautioned against the publication of unverified allegations capable of misleading members of the public or damaging the reputation of individuals and established institutions.
“The Academy is a premier military training institution committed to the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, integrity, accountability, and respect for the rule of law,” the statement said.
The institution explained that complaints and grievances involving its personnel or activities were subject to established procedures, stressing that such matters should be pursued through appropriate institutional and legal channels.
It said the issues raised in Ogunleye’s video were matters for due process and should not be determined through social media publications.
The Academy further disclosed that it had commenced appropriate legal processes in relation to the claims, adding that it would allow the relevant authorities to determine the matter in accordance with the law.
The NDA reaffirmed its commitment to truth, professionalism, accountability, fairness and the rule of law, saying it would continue to protect the integrity of the institution while respecting the rights of all parties to seek lawful redress.