Osun State University (UNIOSUN) has formally rejected the position taken by the Depot Nigerian Army in Osogbo regarding reports of sexual assault involving soldiers. While the university noted the Army’s intent to launch an investigation, it criticized the requirement for victims to file reports directly with the same military body accused of the misconduct.
University spokesperson Ademola Adesoji explained that this procedure ignores the fear and psychological distress survivors experience. The school refuses to provide student names to military authorities, emphasizing that it must protect the privacy and safety of those involved. Vice-Chancellor Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye has vowed to continue supporting any students who experience abuse.
UNIOSUN argued that investigations must be independent and transparent to ensure public trust. Furthermore, the school refuted the Army’s characterization of the Vice-Chancellor’s initial remarks as misleading. Asserting that its duty is to protect its student body, the university has now tasked legal counsel with initiating formal proceedings to address the situation through the judicial system.
