…Heads to Court to Defend Students’ Rights
The management of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) has faulted aspects of the recent statement issued by the Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, over allegations of sexual assault reportedly involving some military personnel and members of the university community, insisting that the protection of its students remains non-negotiable.
In a statement released on Friday, July 3, 2026, by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, the institution acknowledged the Army’s decision to establish a Board of Inquiry to investigate the allegations. However, it expressed concern over the military’s request that alleged victims should report directly to the same institution whose personnel are the subject of the investigation.
According to the university, such an expectation fails to recognise the emotional trauma, fear, intimidation and psychological challenges that often discourage survivors of sexual violence from reporting directly to institutions they may associate with the alleged perpetrators.
UNIOSUN maintained that any investigation into allegations of sexual assault must place the welfare and confidence of survivors at its centre if justice is to be effectively served.
The university also rejected any suggestion that it should disclose the identities of affected students or compel them to appear before military authorities.
It stressed that the institution owes every student a duty of care, confidentiality and protection, adding that it would not compromise the privacy, dignity or safety of any student by releasing personal information without informed consent or in violation of applicable laws.
“The University owes every student a duty of care, confidentiality and protection. We will not compromise the privacy, dignity or safety of any student by disclosing identities without their informed consent or contrary to the provisions of the law,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its commitment to students’ welfare, the university said the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, would continue to stand by students who report incidents of harassment, assault or abuse.
It explained that the Vice-Chancellor’s earlier comments on the matter were neither intended to sensationalise the allegations nor prejudge the outcome of any investigation. Rather, the remarks reflected the institution’s statutory and moral obligation to respond to issues affecting the safety and well-being of members of its academic community.
The university further insisted that investigations into allegations of sexual assault should be independent, transparent and victim-centred in order to inspire public confidence and encourage survivors to come forward without fear of intimidation or victimisation.
UNIOSUN also disagreed with the Nigerian Army’s description of the Vice-Chancellor’s comments as “unconfirmed” or “potentially misleading,” arguing that his remarks were made responsibly and in good faith while carrying out his responsibility to safeguard students.
The institution added that universities do not issue careless public statements and reaffirmed its confidence in the integrity of its leadership.
Consequently, the university disclosed that it has instructed its legal advisers to commence appropriate legal proceedings to protect the integrity of the institution, the reputation of the Vice-Chancellor and the interests of its students.
According to the statement, the courts remain the appropriate forum for resolving the issues arising from the dispute between both institutions.
UNIOSUN reiterated its commitment to the rule of law, the protection of human rights and the pursuit of justice, while assuring members of the public that it would continue to cooperate with all lawful authorities to ensure that the rights, dignity and welfare of its students are fully protected.
