Army probes assault of UNIOSUN students by soldiers

The Nigerian Army has initiated an investigation into allegations of misconduct involving some of its personnel following a complaint from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D. The probe aims to establish the facts surrounding the incident and ensure accountability for any wrongdoing.

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The Nigerian Army exists to protect all citizens, especially the youth, who are the future of the nation. Any conduct that falls short of that mandate is unacceptable.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Major Ibrahim, the Depot Nigerian Army Public Relations Officer, conveyed the Commandant's commitment to protecting all citizens, particularly the youth. The Army emphasized that any conduct falling short of its mandate, including harassment, intimidation, or assault by its personnel, is unacceptable. The statement assured that no student or law-abiding citizen should feel unsafe or be subjected to such treatment by security forces.

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No student or law-abiding citizen should ever feel unsafe or be subjected to harassment, intimidation or assault by those entrusted with the security of lives and property.

The Commandant has directed a full investigation in accordance with military regulations and the core values of the Nigerian Army. The Army stressed that the alleged actions do not align with the training and character development expected of recruits at the Depot. Assurances were given that any personnel found guilty will face the full extent of military law.

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The commandant has ordered an investigation to ascertain the facts of the incident and bring perpetrators to justice.

To facilitate a comprehensive investigation, the Army has formally requested the Southwest Coordinator of NANS, Adeyemo Kayode, to provide all available evidence and witness statements. The statement also indicated the Commandant's willingness to meet with NANS leadership to discuss the matter and determine a path forward. The incident reportedly occurred when newly recruited Army personnel assaulted some UNIOSUN students, leading to a protest and the barricading of Obokun Road.

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The NANS Southwest Coordinator, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, is kindly requested to make available all evidence and witness statements to enable a thorough investigation into the incident.