Chaos in Uniosun as army recruits allegedly invade hotels, harass,

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

There was chaos at the Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo, yesterday, following an alleged invasion of students’ 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 protests by students yesterday, demanding justice for their fellow colleagues.

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 the occupants.

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

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

The Vice-Chancellor, 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 by the Army Public Relations Officer, Major Yahaya Ibrahim, the Depot reiterated that the Nigerian Army exists to protect all citizens, especially the youths, 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 Southwest coordinator, 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.

“The Commandant is ready to meet with the NANS leadership at the earliest convenience to agree on the way forward,” Yahaya said.