The Management of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) has condemned the alleged harassment of some of its students by Nigerian Army recruits in the Oke Baale area of Osogbo, describing the incident as unacceptable and a violation of the students’ fundamental rights.
In a statement issued by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, the institution expressed deep concern over the reported incident, stressing that it would not tolerate any form of harassment, intimidation, assault or abuse against members of its community.
According to the statement, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, on Tuesday visited the affected privately owned hostels in Oke Baale to assess the situation firsthand and interact with the students involved.
During the visit, the Vice-Chancellor inspected reported damage to hostel facilities, including broken windows and doors, while listening to the accounts of the affected students. He sympathised with the victims and assured them that the University would explore all lawful means to ensure justice is served.
Professor Adebooye also assured the students that the University would continue to engage relevant authorities to facilitate the recovery of any personal belongings reportedly taken during the incident and pledged that the institution would pursue the matter until it is satisfactorily resolved.
He urged the affected students to remain calm, law-abiding and confident of the University’s commitment to protecting their welfare and interests.
The statement further disclosed that a delegation from the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, later visited the Vice-Chancellor to brief the University on actions already taken over the incident.
According to the delegation, the recruits alleged to have been involved have been identified and would face appropriate disciplinary measures, including immediate dismissal from the ongoing recruitment exercise, in line with military disciplinary procedures.
UNIOSUN commended the prompt response of the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, and welcomed its assurance that anyone found culpable would be held accountable.
The University reiterated its commitment to maintaining cordial relations with security agencies while insisting that such relationships must be built on respect for the rights, dignity and safety of members of the University community.
It also reassured parents, guardians, students and other stakeholders that the safety and well-being of its students remain its top priority, adding that it would continue to monitor developments and work with relevant authorities to ensure justice is achieved.
The institution reaffirmed its solidarity with the affected students and pledged to provide all necessary support until the matter is conclusively resolved.
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