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From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
The Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, and Osun State University (UNIOSUN) have publicly disagreed over claims that some army personnel invaded a students’ hostel and allegedly committed sexual assault/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 has 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 ongoing, and any personnel found culpable will be dealt with under the Armed Forces Act and other laws, warning that parties should avoid statements that could prejudice the investigation or inflame tensions.
It urged the alleged victims/witnesses to come forward with verifiable information (videos, photographs, medical records, statements) to the Board of Inquiry or via the Army Public Relations Office.
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The Army also said identities and safety would be protected under military and legal procedures, and urged the media, NANS, university management, and the public to avoid spreading unverified information.
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/expectation 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, 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.
UNIOSUN said the Vice-Chancellor’s earlier comments were made to fulfill the university’s responsibility to respond to student safety concerns and were not intended to prejudge the outcome or sensationalise the matter.
The University further disclosed that it has instructed its legal advisers to begin appropriate legal proceedings to protect the integrity of the institution, the reputation of the Vice-Chancellor, and the interests of its students.
UNIOSUN 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.
