The Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, has commenced an investigation into the alleged assault of students of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) by some of its personnel, vowing to deal decisively with those found culpable.
The Depot also called on the victims, the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and members of the public to provide useful information and evidence to assist the ongoing investigation.
It assured that any soldier found guilty would face the full weight of military law, while victims with verified claims of loss or damaged property would be compensated.
The command stressed that the actions of the soldiers involved do not reflect the values, discipline, and character expected of personnel trained at the Depot, adding that such behaviour would not be condoned.
In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, Colonel Yahaya Ibrahim, the command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all personnel are held to the highest standards of discipline and professionalism at all times.
The statement noted that the Nigerian Army exists to protect all citizens, especially the youth, who are the future of the nation. It maintained that anything that falls short of that mandate would not be tolerated, stressing that no student or law-abiding citizen should be subjected to intimidation, harassment, or assault under any guise.
“The Army has been supportive to the neighbouring communities through provision of security via daily patrols, especially around UNIOSUN. This has greatly reduced the prevalence of crimes in and around the university. Conduct free medical outreach to communities around the barracks. Distribution of free fertilizers to assist farmers for its neighbours around the barracks.”
“The Depot has trained almost 8,000 soldiers in less than 12 months who have all been exhibiting exceptional conduct and professionalism. It is therefore unfair to use the action of six or seven soldiers out of 8,000 to judge the character of all the soldiers and the image of the institution. The erring soldiers have been apprehended and, in line with the military justice system, their disciplinary action is already ongoing.”
“The Depot has publicly condemned the act of the soldiers as it announced that anybody with a valid claim of loss or damaged property should come forward for compensation.”
The Depot maintained that it would continue to represent the best interests of Nigerians, noting that its core mandate is to protect lives and property. It added that it would never act in a manner that could jeopardise the trust of citizens whose taxes support the training and operations of the Nigerian Army.
The statement further assured that the Depot would continue to sustain its cordial relationship with Osun State University and its host communities, adding that its doors remain open to the leadership of NANS for further discussions on the incident.
It would be recalled that some personnel of the Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, were alleged to have assaulted students of Osun State University on Monday, an incident that has generated widespread public concern.
