Soldiers’ Criminal Invasion of Students’ Hostels at UNIOSUN

Why did soldiers from the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo, Osun State, leave their base to behave like criminals by invading the off-campus hostels housing students of the University of Osun (UNIOSUN)?

This is one question Army authorities have to answer when they conclude their investigation on the issue.

According to the school authorities, the incident occurred last Monday night.

The soldiers also allegedly abused the students and carted away mobile phones belonging to the students.

The spokesperson of the university, Ademola Adesoji, alleged that more than 20 students were directly affected during the criminal invasion, claiming the soldiers assaulted both male and female students. He further alleged that some female students were stripped and subjected to indecent touching by the soldiers.

According to him, two students sustained injuries that required hospital treatment, although one of them had been discharged on Tuesday morning. He also alleged that the soldiers seized more than 60 electronic devices, including mobile phones, from the students during the raid.

Soldiers exist to protect all citizens and any conduct that falls short of that mandate is unacceptable. Luckily the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-west Zone D is involved to ensure their colleagues get justice.

The Army authorities must not cover up the case. Those involved must be fished out and dealt with. The Nigerian Army should review the training programme of recruits to avoid this bestial behaviour which is common among newly-recruited soldiers.

While reacting to the allegations, the Nigerian Army said it had commenced an investigation into the incident. In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Depot, Major Yahaya Ibrahim, the army said the Commandant had ordered a comprehensive investigation to establish the facts surrounding the allegations and ensure that any personnel found culpable would be held accountable.

If the actions of the soldiers do not reflect the values, training and professionalism expected of its personnel as claimed by Ibrahim, the Army should bring all those involved to justice.