Army Recruits Allegedly Invade UNIOSUN Hostels, Assault Students in Osun

Students of the Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo campus, have alleged that newly recruited Nigerian Army personnel invaded several private hostels off campus, assaulting male students and sexually harassing female students during a late-night incident that has sparked widespread condemnation.

According to eyewitnesses, the recruits, believed to be attached to the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo, had earlier visited entertainment spots around the student community before allegedly harassing residents and demanding money transfers. The situation reportedly escalated when the group stormed about 20 student hostels, including Cristalag and Kings and Queens hostels, where occupants were beaten and robbed of their valuables. Some female students also alleged that they were subjected to sexual harassment during the incident.

Reacting to the development, the Vice-Chancellor of UNIOSUN, Professor Clement Adebooye, condemned the alleged attack, describing it as a disturbing act of violence against innocent students. He called for a thorough investigation and urged the relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone D, also condemned the incident, calling on President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff to investigate the allegations and bring the perpetrators to justice. The student body said those responsible should be punished to deter similar incidents in the future.

As of the time of reporting, the Nigerian Army had not issued an official response to the allegations. The incident has heightened concerns over student safety and renewed calls for improved security around university communities in Osun State.