The management of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) has formally reported an alleged assault on its students by personnel from the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo, following claims that soldiers invaded several student hostels and attacked residents on Monday evening.
The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Clement Adebooye, disclosed the development on Tuesday after visiting some of the affected hostels to assess the situation and meet with students.
According to the university, the incident has been officially reported to the management of the Nigerian Army Depot, with the institution calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations.
Professor Adebooye expressed disappointment over the incident, noting that the Army Depot’s proximity to the university had always been regarded as an advantage that would enhance the safety of students and staff.
“We have reported to the management of the depot. It is sad that the Army Depot, located close to the campus, which we felt would give us security cover, could eventually release men that will subject our students to this kind of harrowing experience,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
Preliminary findings by the university indicate that more than 20 students have been identified as victims of the alleged attack, while investigations remain ongoing.
The institution’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, said testimonies gathered from affected students suggested that both male and female students were assaulted during the incident.
According to him, the soldiers allegedly confiscated more than 60 mobile phones and other electronic devices belonging to students.
Adesoji further alleged that some female students reported being stripped naked and subjected to indecent touching during the incident, while several male students were also physically assaulted.
“Some female students said they were stripped by the soldiers. They also said they touched them indecently. Some male students were also assaulted,” he said.
The university also disclosed that two students sustained injuries serious enough to require medical treatment. One of the students had been discharged from hospital as of Tuesday morning, while the condition of the other was not immediately disclosed.
Adesoji revealed that three of the alleged perpetrators had been identified and brought to the university campus as discussions between the institution’s management and the Nigerian Army continued.
The university also acknowledged reports alleging that a female student was raped during the incident.
However, Adesoji stressed that the allegation had not been substantiated, as no individual had yet come forward or been identified as the alleged victim.
“We can’t confirm the alleged rape yet,” he said, adding that the university would continue to investigate all reported incidents before reaching any conclusions.
According to reports, the soldiers involved were believed to be among a batch of personnel who recently completed their training at the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo and participated in a passing-out parade held last Saturday.
Witnesses alleged that the soldiers stormed several off-campus student hostels, assaulted occupants and made away with dozens of mobile phones and other valuables.
The allegations have generated concern within the university community, with students calling for justice and the recovery of confiscated property.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had not issued an official statement responding to the allegations. Investigations by both the university authorities and the military are expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.