The Nigerian Army has demanded evidence and witness reports on the alleged sexual assault and rape of the University of Osun (UNIOSUN) female students by personnel attached to the Depot Nigerian Army formation in Osun capital city, Osogbo.
As contained in a statement issued on Friday by the formation’s spokesperson, Ibrahim Yahaya, the army disclosed requested evidence and witness report to aid the ongoing investigation by the constituted Board of Inquiry.
Ibrahim, in reaction to the allegations filed against it by the UNIOSUN Vice Chancellor, Prof. Odunayo Adebooye, frowned at the spread of the allegation, stressing that no formal complaint or evidence has been filed before the formation.
“The Nigerian Army and by extension Depot Nigerian Army Osogbo, remains fully committed to a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation into all allegations of unprofessional conduct.
“The Board of Inquiry earlier constituted is ongoing and will leave no stone unturned. Any personnel found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other extant laws. The Army remain professional and does not condone indiscipline.
“On the Allegations of Rape, now Circulating on Social Media, the Commandant has taken note of rape allegations recently attributed to the Vice Chancellor of Osun State University Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye and amplified on social media platforms.
“At this time, Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo has not received any formal complaint, medical report, or credible evidence from any alleged victim, witness, or the University Management to substantiate the claim of rape by our personnel.
“In the absence of such concrete evidence, we view the widespread circulation of this specific allegation as unconfirmed and potentially misleading to the public.” The statement partly read.
Ibrahim urged all parties to refrain from actions or statements that may prejudice the ongoing investigation or inflame tensions as he called on alleged victims of the assault or eyewitnesses to come forwrd and present evidences.
“We therefore make a direct appeal to any alleged victim(s) of assault or sexual misconduct; and any eyewitness(es) with verifiable information, including videos, photographs, medical records, or statements.
“You are kindly requested to come forward and present your evidence directly and confidentially to the Board of Inquiry at the Headquarters, Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, or through the Army Public Relations Office.
“Your identity and safety will be protected in line with military and legal procedures. This is the only credible path to identifying and prosecuting the culprits if they exist.” He said.
The army spokesperson appealled to the media, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), as well as the university management to desist from spreading unverified information about the alleagtion.
“We appeal to the Media, NANS, University Management and the general public to avoid the spread of unverified information.
“Sensationalism and disinformation only hinder the search for truth and can cause unnecessary panic among students and host communities.
“Depot Nigerian Army Osogbo reiterates its commitment to civil-military cooperation, the protection of students, and the upholding of human rights. We will continue to update the public as the investigation progresses.” He added.