Osun State University, UNIOSUN, has condemned reports of alleged harassment and assault on some of its students by a number of Nigerian Army recruits at Oke Baale, Osogbo.
The University said no member of its community should suffer harassment, intimidation, assault or any violation of dignity and basic rights under any circumstance.
What Has UNIOSUN Said About The Oke Baale Incident?
The Management of Osun State University has received reports of alleged harassment of some students by Nigerian Army recruits around Oke Baale, Osogbo, with deep concern and clear displeasure.
A statement released by the University Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, said the University strongly condemns every form of harassment, intimidation, assault and violation of the dignity and fundamental rights of its students.
The University stated that every member of its community deserves safety, respect and protection.
Which Area Was Affected?
The incident was reported at Oke Baale, Osogbo, where some privately owned hostels housing UNIOSUN students were affected.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, visited the affected hostels to assess the situation directly, meet with students and see the reported damage.
What Did The Vice-Chancellor Do After The Reports?
Professor Adebooye paid an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected privately owned hostels at Oke Baale, Osogbo.
During the visit, he inspected the damage reported at the hostels, including broken windows and doors and listened to students who narrated their experiences.
The visit was part of the University's immediate effort to assess the matter directly and give assurance to the affected students.
What Assurance Was Given To The Students?
Professor Adebooye expressed the University's sympathy to the affected students and reassured them that Management would pursue every legitimate avenue to ensure that justice is served.
He told the students that the University stands firmly with them.
The Vice-Chancellor also assured the students that the University would continue to engage relevant authorities to ensure that any personal belongings reportedly taken from them are recovered and returned to their rightful owners.
What Should Affected Students Do?
Affected students have been urged to remain calm, law-abiding and confident that the University will protect their interests and welfare.
The University said it would not relent until the matter is satisfactorily resolved.
Students who were affected are expected to remain in contact with the relevant University officials as the matter progresses, especially where reports of damage, missing belongings or personal harm have been made.
What Did The Nigerian Army Depot Tell UNIOSUN?
A delegation from the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, later visited the Vice-Chancellor and briefed the University on steps already taken over the incident.
The delegation informed the Vice-Chancellor that the personnel alleged to have been involved had been identified.
The delegation also stated that appropriate disciplinary action, including immediate dismissal from the ongoing recruitment exercise, would be taken under military disciplinary procedures.
How Has UNIOSUN Responded To The Army's Action?
The Management of Osun State University commended the prompt response and cooperation of the leadership of the Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo.
The University also noted the assurance that those found culpable will be held accountable.
UNIOSUN said it remains committed to cordial relations with security agencies, while insisting that such relations must always rest on mutual respect for the rights, dignity and safety of members of the University community.
What Is The Message To Parents, Guardians And Stakeholders?
UNIOSUN has reassured parents, guardians, students and all stakeholders that the safety and well-being of students remain its highest priority.
The University said it will continue to monitor developments closely and work with appropriate authorities to ensure that justice is done.
Osun State University also stated that it stands in solidarity with every student affected by the incident and will provide all necessary support until the matter is conclusively resolved.
