UNIOSUN assault: Army calls on alleged victims to submit evidence

The Nigerian Army has appealed to any student of Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo, who was allegedly sexually assaulted during the recent invasion of off-campus hostels by its personnel to come forward with credible evidence as investigations into the incident continue.

The appeal was made in a statement issued on Friday by the Headquarters, Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, providing an update on the ongoing investigation into the alleged assault on UNIOSUN students by some recently passed-out personnel of the Depot.

The statement, signed by the Assistant Director of Public Relations, Major Ibrahim Yahaya, specifically addressed allegations that some soldiers raped female students during the incident.

According to the Army, the allegation was first raised by the Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University, Professor Odunayo Clement Adeboye, and has since gained traction on social media.

However, the Army said that despite the widespread claims, no alleged victim has formally reported any case of rape to the military authorities.

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It added that neither the university management nor any witness has provided evidence to support the allegation before the Board of Inquiry investigating the incident.

“At this time, Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo has not received any formal complaint, medical report, or credible evidence from any alleged victim, witness, or the University Management to substantiate the claim of rape by our personnel,” the statement said.

The Army described the allegation as unconfirmed in the absence of verifiable evidence and cautioned against the circulation of information capable of prejudicing the ongoing investigation or escalating tensions.

It called on any victim of sexual assault, eyewitness or anyone with verifiable information, including videos, photographs, medical reports or witness statements, to submit such evidence confidentially to the Board of Inquiry at the Headquarters, Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, or through the Army Public Relations Office.

The military assured that the identities and safety of complainants would be protected in line with military procedures and the law.

The Army reiterated its commitment to conducting a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation into all allegations of misconduct involving its personnel.

It stated that any officer or soldier found culpable would be sanctioned in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable laws, stressing that the Nigerian Army does not tolerate indiscipline or professional misconduct.

The Depot also appealed to the media, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the management of Osun State University and the general public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could undermine the search for the truth or create unnecessary panic among students and residents.

It reaffirmed its commitment to civil-military relations, the protection of civilians and respect for human rights, assuring that the public would be updated as the investigation progresses.