Fear and outrage swept through the Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo, after soldiers allegedly invaded students’ hostels, assaulted male and female students, confiscated more than 60 mobile phones and other electronic gadgets, and left several victims hospitalised in an incident that has sparked fresh concerns over the safety of students living off campus.
The alleged invasion occurred on Monday evening when the soldiers, said to be attached to the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, reportedly stormed several private hostels accommodating UNIOSUN students. Witnesses claimed the military personnel subjected students to hours of intimidation, physical assault and harassment in what many described as one of the most traumatic attacks on the university community in recent years.
According to accounts from affected students, the soldiers beat several male students, while some female students alleged that they were stripped naked, sexually harassed and forced to dance unclothed. There were also allegations that a female student was raped during the invasion, although university authorities said the allegation had not been independently verified as investigations continue.
Beyond the physical assaults, the attackers allegedly carted away more than 60 mobile phones and other valuables belonging to students. The incident has heightened anxiety among students and parents, many of whom have called for urgent government intervention to guarantee the security of learners residing around the university.
Reacting swiftly, the Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University, Professor Clement Adebooye, visited some of the affected hostels on Tuesday to assess the situation and sympathise with the victims. He described the incident as deeply disturbing and confirmed that the matter had been formally reported to the management of the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo.
Addressing affected students, the Vice-Chancellor expressed disappointment over the development, saying, “We have reported to the management of the depot. It is sad that the Army Depot, located close to the campus, which we felt would give us security cover, could eventually release men that will subject our students to this kind of harrowing experience.”
The university’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, disclosed that the institution had already identified more than 20 students directly affected by the attack. He added that two students sustained injuries serious enough to require hospital treatment, although one had been discharged after receiving medical attention.
Providing further details, Adesoji said, “The soldiers came from Osogbo Army Depot. They assaulted the students. Some female students said they were stripped by the soldiers. They also said they touched them indecently. Some male students were also assaulted. Two students were hospitalised, but one was discharged this morning. Over 60 gadgets, including phones, were seized from the students.”
He further revealed that three of the alleged perpetrators had already been identified and brought to the university campus as discussions commenced with military authorities. However, he stressed that the university could not officially confirm the allegation of rape until ongoing investigations are concluded.
The disturbing incident has renewed concerns about student welfare and security in Nigerian tertiary institutions, particularly those located close to military formations and other security facilities. Stakeholders argue that while universities require adequate security, students must also be protected from abuse, intimidation and violations of their fundamental human rights.
Students and parents have called on the Federal Government, the Nigerian Army and relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, identify everyone involved and ensure justice for the victims. Many insist that those responsible should be held accountable to prevent similar attacks on university campuses across the country.
As of the time of filing this report, the university management said it was continuing engagements with the Army authorities while offering support to affected students. The institution also assured members of the university community that every effort would be made to safeguard students and ensure that those responsible for the alleged assault are brought to justice.
