The Nigerian Army has ordered a full-scale investigation into allegations that newly recruited soldiers invaded student hostels belonging to Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo, assaulting residents and carting away valuables.
The directive followed a massive protest on Tuesday led by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Clement Adebooye, alongside members of the institution’s management and hundreds of students.
The demonstrators blocked the busy Osogbo/Ikirun Road at the Sasa axis, demanding justice over the incident.
According to reports, the alleged invasion occurred on Monday evening when soldiers from the Army Depot in Osogbo reportedly stormed off-campus hostels around the Oke Baale area.
Students claimed the soldiers physically assaulted residents, vandalised property, and seized more than 60 mobile phones and other electronic devices.
Disturbing allegations also emerged from some female students who claimed they were forcefully stripped and sexually assaulted during the raid.
Male students were reportedly beaten, particularly those seen wearing clothing resembling military camouflage.
Reacting to the incident, Prof. Adebooye described the invasion as “barbaric” and “uncalled for,” expressing deep concern over the safety of students.
“It is disheartening that a military institution situated close to our campus, which we believed would enhance our security, could have personnel involved in such actions,” he said.
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The university’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, confirmed that over 20 students had been identified as victims, with at least two hospitalised following the incident.
He added that while allegations of sexual assault had been reported, they were yet to be officially confirmed.
“More than 60 gadgets, including phones, were taken. Some students were physically assaulted, and properties were damaged. We are working with authorities to ensure justice is served,” Adesoji stated.
Protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as “We came to learn, not to be violated,” and “No one is above the law,” calling for the identification and prosecution of those responsible.
Prof. Adebooye, who visited the affected hostels early Tuesday morning, said he was deeply moved by the level of destruction and the trauma experienced by the students.
“I was moved to tears by what I saw. It is inhumane for anyone in uniform to subject students, especially female students, to such degrading treatment,” he said.
In response, the Nigerian Army, through a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Depot, Major Yahaya Ibrahim, assured the public that a thorough investigation had been initiated.
“The Nigerian Army exists to protect all citizens, especially the youth. Any conduct that undermines this responsibility is unacceptable.
The Commandant has ordered an investigation to ascertain the facts and ensure that any personnel found culpable are brought to justice,” the statement read.
The incident has sparked widespread concern over the conduct of security personnel and the safety of students living off-campus, with many calling for swift accountability and systemic reforms.
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