Students of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) on Tuesday staged a protest following the alleged invasion of private student hostels by newly recruited Nigerian Army personnel, who were accused of assaulting residents and causing extensive damage to property.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred on Monday night in the Oke-Baale area of Osogbo, where several private hostels housing UNIOSUN students are located. The recruits, reportedly attached to the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo, allegedly stormed the hostels after visiting entertainment spots within the student community.
Students claimed the recruits forcibly entered about 20 hostels, assaulted male occupants, harassed female students, and allegedly made away with mobile phones and other valuables. They also alleged that doors, windows and other hostel facilities were damaged during the incident.
The development sparked outrage among students, who took to the streets on Tuesday and blocked the busy Ibokun Road while demanding justice. Protesters carried placards with inscriptions including “Students Community Isn’t a War Zone,” “Our Girls Are Not Safe,” and “Say No to Army Brutality.” Security operatives later intervened to restore normal traffic.
Reacting to the incident, the Vice-Chancellor of UNIOSUN, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, visited the affected hostels to assess the situation and sympathise with the victims. He condemned the alleged attack and assured students that the university would work with relevant authorities to ensure justice and facilitate the recovery of any stolen property.
In a statement, the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo said it had launched an investigation into the allegations. The Army assured the public that any personnel found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary measures in line with military regulations.
The military also appealed to students and other witnesses to provide credible evidence to aid the investigation, reiterating its commitment to professionalism and the protection of citizens.
The incident has continued to generate widespread concern, with student groups and members of the public calling for a transparent investigation and accountability for anyone found responsible. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
