The Management of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) has received with deep concern and profound displeasure reports of the alleged harassment of some of its students by a number of Nigerian Army recruits in the Oke Baale area of Osogbo, according to a statement obtained by Olofofo Uniosun.
The statement, released by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, said the institution strongly condemns every form of harassment, intimidation, assault or violation of the dignity and fundamental rights of its students, stressing that no member of the university community should be subjected to any form of abuse under any circumstance.
Following the disturbing reports, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, on Tuesday morning paid an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected privately owned hostels at Oke Baale, Osogbo, to ascertain the situation firsthand and interact with the affected students.
During the visit, the Vice-Chancellor inspected the reported damage to some hostel facilities, including broken windows and doors, and met with students who narrated their experiences. He expressed the university’s sympathy with those affected and reassured them that management would pursue every legitimate avenue to ensure that justice is served.
Addressing the students, Professor Adebooye assured them that the university stands firmly with them and will continue to engage all relevant authorities to ensure that any personal belongings reportedly taken from the students are recovered and returned to their rightful owners. He also assured them that the university would not relent until the matter is satisfactorily resolved, urging the affected students to remain calm, law-abiding and confident that the university would vigorously protect their interests and welfare.
Subsequently, a delegation from the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, visited the Vice-Chancellor to formally brief the university on steps already taken in response to the incident. The delegation informed Professor Adebooye that the personnel alleged to have been involved had been identified, and that appropriate disciplinary action, including their immediate dismissal from the ongoing recruitment exercise, would be taken in accordance with military disciplinary procedures.
The university’s management commended the prompt response and cooperation of the leadership of the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, in addressing the incident, noting assurances that those found culpable would be held accountable.
UNIOSUN said it remains committed to maintaining a cordial relationship with all security agencies, while insisting that such relationships must always be founded on mutual respect for the rights, dignity and safety of members of the university community.
The institution reassured parents, guardians, students and other stakeholders that the safety and well-being of students remains its highest priority, and that it would continue to monitor developments closely and work with the appropriate authorities to ensure justice is done.
Osun State University stated it stands in solidarity with every student affected by the incident and will continue to provide all necessary support until the matter is conclusively resolved.
