Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
Osun State University has accused personnel from the Army Depot in Osogbo of invading student hostels, assaulting residents and confiscating dozens of mobile phones and other electronic devices during a late-night operation on Monday.
University authorities said more than 20 students had been identified as victims of the incident, which reportedly occurred at off-campus hostels in Osogbo.
According to the institution, some female students alleged that they were stripped and subjected to indecent treatment by the soldiers, while several male students were also beaten.
An allegation of rape also emerged, although university officials said it had not been independently verified.
The university’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, said over 60 phones and other gadgets were allegedly taken away during the raid.
“The soldiers came from Osogbo Army Depot. They assaulted the students. Some female students said they were stripped by the soldiers. They also said they touched them indecently.
“Some male students were also assaulted. Two students were hospitalised, but one was discharged this morning. Over 60 gadgets, including phones, were seized from the students.
“Three of the perpetrators were identified and brought to the campus this morning. The VC has taken the matter up with the Army authority. We can’t confirm the alleged rape yet,” Adesoji said.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Clement Adebooye, visited some of the affected hostels on Tuesday and said the matter had been formally reported to the leadership of the Army Depot.
“We have reported to the management of the depot. It is sad that the Army Depot, located close to the campus, which we felt would give us security cover, could eventually release men that will subject our students to this kind of harrowing experience,” the vice-chancellor said.
Witnesses alleged that the soldiers involved were among personnel who recently participated in a passing-out parade held at the depot.
As of the time of filing this report, the Army authorities had yet to issue an official response to the allegations.
