By Olajide Idowu
The Commandant, Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, has called for calm over allegation that recruits from the depot attacked, harassed and extorted some students of the Osun State University in their hostels on Monday evening.
In a statement by Major Yahay Ibrahim, Army Public Relations Officer Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, he said the matter would be thoroughly investigated and culprits will be brought to justice.
"The Commandant, Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, has noted with concern the press release by the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS Southwest Zone D, regarding alleged misconduct by some army personnel.
"The Depot wishes to reiterate that 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.
"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.
"In line with military regulations and the values of the Nigerian Army, the Commandant has ordered an investigation to ascertain the facts of the incident and bring perpetrators to justice," the statement reads.
He said the NANS Southwest coordinator, Mr Adeyem Kayode, is, however, requested to make available all evidence and witness statements to enable a thorough investigation into the incident.
He said Depot Nigerian Army Osogbo remains committed to ensuring that its personnel are held to the highest standards at all times.
"The alleged actions of the personnel do not reflect the training and character development of recruits at the Depot.
"We therefore give our firm assurance that any personnel found guilty will face the full weight of military law.
"The Commandant is ready to meet with the NANS leadership at the earliest convenience to agree on the way forward," he said.
Similarly, the Management of Osun State University, in a statement, also condemned the alleged harassment and assault of the students.
According to the release, the Vice-Chancellor urged students to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that the university would continue to protect their interests and welfare.
NAN reports that students of UniOsun , Osogbo campus, on Tuesday staged a protest over alleged hostel invasion, assaulted and sexual harassed of some female students by Nigerian Army recruits from Depot Osogbo.
Reacting to the development, the Coordinator of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Zone D, Josiah Adeyemo, called on President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff to identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice to serve as a deterrent to others.
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