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Varsity vows legal action
The Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, and Osun State University (UNIOSUN) have publicly disagreed over claims that some army personnel invaded a students’ hostel and committed alleged sexual assault and rape.
In a statement issued at the weekend by the Army’s Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Major Ibrahim Yahaya, the Depot Nigerian Army said it had not received any formal complaint, medical report or credible evidence from any alleged victim, witness or UNIOSUN management to substantiate the rape allegation attributed to its personnel.
The Army said the allegation—escalated by UNIOSUN’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Clement Adebooye—remains unconfirmed and potentially misleading to the public until evidence is presented.
It added that a Board of Inquiry already constituted is carrying out investigations and that any personnel found culpable would be dealt with under the Armed Forces Act and other applicable laws. It warned that parties should avoid statements that could prejudice the investigation or inflame tensions.
The Army urged alleged victims and witnesses to come forward with verifiable information, including videos, photographs, medical records and statements, to the Board of Inquiry or through the Army Public Relations Office.
It also stated that the identities and safety of complainants would be protected under military and legal procedures and urged the media, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), university management and the public to avoid spreading unverified information.
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In a response by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, UNIOSUN acknowledged the Board of Inquiry but said it was concerned about the suggestion that alleged victims should report directly to the same institution whose personnel are under investigation.
The university argued that such an approach may not adequately consider trauma, fear, intimidation and psychological barriers that can prevent survivors from reporting, as well as the need for victim-centred and independent investigation processes.
UNIOSUN also stated that it considered unacceptable any demand to disclose the identities of affected students or compel them to appear before military authorities, stressing its duty of care, confidentiality and protection of students.
The university said the Vice-Chancellor’s earlier comments were made to fulfil the institution’s responsibility to respond to student safety concerns and were not intended to prejudge the outcome of the investigation or sensationalise the matter.
UNIOSUN further disclosed that it has instructed its legal advisers to commence appropriate legal proceedings to protect the integrity of the institution, the reputation of the Vice-Chancellor and the interests of its students.
The university reiterated its commitment to the rule of law, human rights and justice, saying it remains ready to cooperate with lawful authorities while keeping students’ welfare paramount.
