The University of Osun (UNIOSUN) on Tuesday accused military operations reportedly affiliated to the Army Depot, Osogbo of invading off-campus hostels of the institution’s students on Monday night and beating up the students as well as seizing their property.
The institution stated the incident had been reported to the administrators of the Army Depot and efforts were on to ensure those behind it were brought to book, Daily Trust reports.
The Vice Chancellor of UNIOSUN, Clement Adeboye confirmed the occurrence to press during a visit to the affected hostels on Tuesday, describing the development as regrettable.
“We have told the management of the depot.” “It is sad that we felt we could get security cover from the Army Depot that is not far from the campus could eventually release men that will subject our students to this kind of harrowing experience,” he said.
The university’s spokesman, Ademola Adesoji, said more than 20 students were directly affected during the operation, alleging the troops abused male and female students.
‘More than 20 already identified as victims. We identified the students involved. The soldiers belonged to the Osogbo Army Depot. “They attacked the students,” Adesoji stated.
He further said that troops stripped several of the female students and touched them indecently.
“Some female students said they were stripped by the soldiers. They alleged they were indecently touched. “Some male students were assaulted as well,” he said.
Adesoji said two pupils were injured and had to be taken to the hospital, but one was released Tuesday morning.
He added that the military also seized more than 60 electronic gadgets, including mobile phones, from the students during the operation.
“Students had over 60 gadgets including phones confiscated. Five of the criminals were identified and brought to campus this morning,” he said.
However, the troops that paraded on the campus were later taken back to the military base after identification by Adesoji.
“But they were sent back to the military base later. The army division indicated they would be fired.
“The VC has taken up the issue with the army leadership. “We can’t confirm the alleged rape yet,” he stated.
The university said it was talking to the military authorities regarding the event and hoped there would be appropriate disciplinary action against any troops found accountable.
Investigation ordered by Army
The Nigerian Army has responded to the charges, saying it had launched an investigation into the incident following a plea by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D.
The Public Relations Officer of the Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, Major Yahaya Ibrahim, said in a statement issued on Tuesday that the Commandant has ordered a comprehensive investigation to establish the facts surrounding the allegations and ensure that any personnel found culpable will be brought to book.
The Army stated the action was in response to a press release issued by NANS Southwest Zone D, accusing several soldiers of wrongdoing against students.
It reiterated its commitment to the safety of citizens and emphasised that no law-abiding Nigerian should be harassed, intimidated or assaulted by security personnel.
“The Nigerian Army is there to protect all citizens, especially the youths, who are the future of the nation. “Any conduct that falls short of that mandate is unacceptable,” the statement read.
The Army also asked the Coordinator of NANS Southwest Zone D, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, to make available any evidence at his disposal including witness statements and other related materials in respect of the alleged occurrence to aid inquiry.
The Army said the alleged conduct was not indicative of the values, training and professionalism required of its soldiers and any officer found guilty following the investigation will be punished to the fullest extent of military law.
It further revealed that the Commandant had indicated his willingness to meet with the leadership of NANS at the earliest opportunity to discuss the issue and map a way ahead.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, openness and compliance with the highest levels of discipline among its members.
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