By Richard Akintade, Osogbo
Students of Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo campus, were reportedly subjected to a disturbing ordeal on Monday night after newly recruited Nigerian Army personnel allegedly invaded student hostels and nearby communities, assaulting male students and residents.
Witnesses claimed the recruits, said to be from the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo, had earlier visited entertainment centres around the student community before allegedly harassing young men and demanding money transfers. The situation escalated when they stormed about 20 hostels, including Cristalag and Kings and Queens, as well as brothels in Igbonan, where violence was unleashed.
Some female students alleged they were forced to strip and sexually assaulted, while male students reported being beaten and robbed of mobile phones and valuables.
Reacting, UNIOSUN management condemned the harassment in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, stressing that no member of the university community should be subjected to abuse. Vice-Chancellor Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye visited the affected hostels, assuring students that the university would engage relevant authorities to recover stolen items and ensure justice.
A delegation from the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, later met with the Vice-Chancellor, confirming that the personnel involved had been identified and would face disciplinary action, including dismissal from the recruitment exercise. The university commended the Army’s prompt response and cooperation.
Meanwhile, the Depot Nigerian Army Commandant issued a statement through Major Yahaya Ibrahim, reiterating that the Army exists to protect citizens, especially youths, and that any conduct falling 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,” the statement read.
