Students of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) in Osogbo have alleged that soldiers from the nearby Army Depot invaded their off-campus hostels, physically assaulted residents and carted away dozens of mobile phones and other valuables during a late-night operation.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on Monday evening, has sparked outrage among students and university management, with allegations of physical abuse, sexual harassment and excessive use of force.
According to accounts from affected students, the soldiers stormed several hostels, beating students they encountered and confiscating more than 60 mobile phones and electronic devices. Some male students were allegedly attacked for wearing clothing or caps bearing camouflage or military-style colours.
Several female students also alleged that they were stripped, humiliated and subjected to indecent touching during the operation. An allegation that a female student was raped has also emerged, although the claim had not been independently verified at the time of reporting.
The Vice-Chancellor of UNIOSUN, Professor Clement Adebooye, visited some of the affected hostels on Tuesday and described the incident as deeply disturbing. He disclosed that the
matter had already been reported to the leadership of the Army Depot in Osogbo.Adebooye expressed disappointment that a military formation expected to provide security to the university community had become the subject of such serious allegations. He assured students that the institution would pursue the matter through the appropriate authorities.
The university’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, said more than 20 students had so far been identified as victims of the incident. He confirmed that two students sustained injuries serious enough to require hospital treatment, although one had since been discharged.
Adesoji added that over 60 electronic gadgets, including mobile phones, were allegedly taken by the soldiers. He further disclosed that three of the suspected perpetrators had been identified and brought to the university for questioning as investigations continue.
The university, however, stressed that it could not officially confirm the rape allegation until investigations are concluded.
The incident has generated widespread concern among students and members of the public, with many calling for a transparent investigation and justice for any victims if the allegations are substantiated.
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