Chaos in UNIOSUN as Army recruits allegedly invade hostels, harass, assault students

Army calls for calm

There was chaos at Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo, on Tuesday following an alleged invasion of student hostels by newly recruited personnel of the Nigerian Army.

Students alleged that the recruits invaded their hostels on Monday night, assaulted male students and sexually harassed female students.

The incident led to a protest by students on Tuesday, demanding justice for their fellow students.

According to findings, the recruits—who were said to be from the Depot, Nigerian Army, Osogbo—had earlier visited areas around the students’ community under the guise of relaxing at entertainment centres.

Witnesses further alleged that some recruits harassed young men and demanded money transfers into bank accounts.

The situation allegedly escalated when the recruits reportedly stormed about 20 student hostels, including Cristalag and Kings and Queens hostels, where they allegedly unleashed violence on occupants.

Female students claimed they were forced to strip and were sexually assaulted.

Male students alleged that they were beaten and that their mobile phones and valuables were stolen.

The Vice-Chancellor of UNIOSUN, Professor Clement Adebooye, condemned the incident, describing it as “gory” and referring to the perpetrators as “animals” who “should not be living among humans.”

The Coordinator of NANS (Zone D), Josiah Adeyemo, called on President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff to identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice to deter others.

The Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, called for calm, promising to investigate the matter.

In a statement issued by the Army Public Relations Officer, Major Yahaya Ibrahim, the Depot reiterated that the Nigerian Army exists to protect all citizens, especially the youth, who are the future of the nation, saying any conduct that falls short of that mandate is unacceptable.

“No student or law-abiding citizen should ever feel unsafe or be subjected to harassment, intimidation or assault by those entrusted with the security of lives and property.

“In line with military regulations and the values of the Nigerian Army, the Commandant has ordered an investigation to ascertain the facts of the incident and bring perpetrators to justice. The NANS South-West Coordinator, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, is kindly requested to make available all evidence and witness statements to enable a thorough investigation into the incident.

“The Depot Nigerian Army Osogbo remains committed to ensuring that its personnel are held to the highest standards at all times.

“The alleged actions of the personnel do not reflect the training and character development of recruits at the Depot. We therefore give our firm assurance that any personnel found guilty will face the full weight of military law.