The Nigerian Navy yesterday denied reports alleging that a female warrant officer died after being subjected to harsh punishment by a superior officer at a naval facility in Lagos.

The Navy’s spokesperson, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, described the reports as false and misleading, insisting that the death of Warrant Officer M.O. Yusuf was not connected to any disciplinary action.

According to the Navy, the officer died on May 20, 2026, at the Gowon Estate Sick Bay in Ipaja, Lagos.

The military institution expressed condolences to the deceased’s family while reaffirming its commitment to discipline, professionalism and the welfare of its personnel.

“The true cause of the rating’s death is a medical matter that has been properly communicated to her family. We urge the public to refrain from speculation and allow the bereaved family to grieve in peace,” Folorunsho stated.

Reports circulating online had claimed that Yusuf collapsed and died after allegedly being ordered to carry out strenuous outdoor labour under the supervision of her Officer in Charge, Lt.-Commander S.T. Abashim.

The widely circulated account alleged that the officer had earlier reported ill health and requested medical attention after resuming duty on May 20, but was allegedly punished with extra labour under the sun despite her condition.

According to the claims shared on social media, the officer later became dizzy, experienced blurred vision and was allegedly placed in a ward without immediate medical treatment before reportedly dying about an hour later.

The allegations sparked outrage on social media platforms, with many Nigerians calling for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death and broader concerns over welfare and disciplinary practices within military institutions.

Reacting to the public backlash, the Nigerian Navy maintained that the viral narrative misrepresented the facts surrounding the incident.

The service stressed that the welfare and health of officers and ratings remained a priority and that all disciplinary and medical procedures were governed by established military protocols.

The Guardian, however, learnt from a naval officer that Yusuf had reportedly been ill but was allegedly punished after resuming at the office the following day.

The incident has reignited national conversations surrounding working conditions, welfare policies and accountability within Nigeria’s armed forces, especially regarding the treatment of female personnel.

More updates are expected as investigations continue.

“The Nigerian Navy extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time. We recognise the public interest surrounding the matter and wish to reassure all concerned that the Nigerian Navy remains committed to its core values of integrity, professionalism and respect for human dignity” Folorunsho added.

He further stated that the established facts surrounding the incident and the underlying cause of death would be communicated to the family while respecting the confidential nature of medical matters.

“We urge the public to refrain from speculation or spreading unverified information and to respect the privacy of the bereaved family so they can grieve in peace,” he added. (Guardian)

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