Soldiers invade UNIOSUN hostels, assault students

Military personnel from the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo have allegedly invaded hostels occupied by students of the University of Osun (UNIOSUN), assaulting several occupants and confiscating dozens of mobile phones.

The incident that has drawn condemnation from the university management.

The incident reportedly occurred on Monday night at hostels located near the university, leaving more than 20 students affected, while two were hospitalised, according to the institution.

Professor Clement Adeboye, vice-chancellor of the university, confirmed the incident during an inspection of the affected hostels on Tuesday, describing the development as disturbing.

He said the matter had been reported to the management of the Army Depot, expressing disappointment that a military formation situated close to the university was allegedly linked to the attack.

According to Adeboye, the university had expected the military presence in the area to enhance security rather than expose students to intimidation and violence.

Ademola Adesoji, the university’s spokesperson alleged that the soldiers assaulted both male and female students during the operation.

He said some female students claimed they were stripped and subjected to indecent touching, while male students were also physically attacked.

Adesoji disclosed that more than 60 mobile phones and other gadgets were allegedly seized from the students during the raid.

He added that two students sustained injuries and were taken to hospital, with one later discharged after receiving treatment.

According to him, five of the suspected military personnel were initially identified and brought to the university campus before they were returned to the Army Depot.

He said military authorities had indicated that disciplinary action, including possible dismissal, would be taken against those found culpable.

The university, however, said it could not independently confirm allegations of rape made by some students, noting that investigations were ongoing.