Alleged sexual assault: UNIOSUN rejects Army response, initiates legal action
Osun State University Responds to Allegations Involving Military Personnel
Osun State University (UNIOSUN) has officially rejected portions of a statement from the Depot Nigerian Army in Osogbo regarding allegations of sexual assault involving military personnel and university members.
In a statement released Friday, Public Relations Officer Ademola Adesoji acknowledged the Army’s initiative to form a Board of Inquiry but expressed concern over the suggestion that alleged victims report their experiences directly to the same institution connected to the accused personnel. The university emphasized that such an approach might ignore the trauma and psychological barriers that often deter survivors from coming forward.
The university stated it will not disclose the identities of affected students or mandate their appearance before military authorities. “Osun State University owes every student a duty of care, confidentiality, and protection,” the statement read. “We will not compromise the privacy, dignity, or safety of any student by disclosing identities without informed consent or in violation of applicable laws.”
The statement also highlighted the university’s commitment to student welfare and safety, asserting that Vice-Chancellor Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye will continue to support students who report incidents of harassment or abuse.
UNIOSUN clarified that previous comments made by the Vice-Chancellor were not intended to influence the investigation’s outcome or sensationalize the issue. Instead, they aimed to fulfill the university’s obligation to address safety concerns affecting its students.
The university called for investigations into sexual assault allegations to be victim-centered, independent, transparent, and designed to foster public confidence. “Survivors should never be placed in a position where they may fear intimidation or victimization by having to report directly to individuals associated with the investigation,” the statement added.
In response to the Army’s characterization of the Vice-Chancellor’s remarks as unconfirmed or misleading, UNIOSUN insisted these comments were made responsibly and in good faith. The university announced it has engaged legal advisers to explore appropriate legal action to protect its reputation and the interests of its students.
“The appropriate judicial process provides the proper forum for resolving the issues arising from this unfortunate development,” the statement concluded.
Earlier reports indicated that the Depot Nigerian Army in Osogbo had appealed to victims and witnesses of the alleged incidents at UNIOSUN hostels for evidence to assist with ongoing investigations into the misconduct of recently discharged military personnel.