Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has demanded a thorough investigation into allegations that soldiers invaded students’ hostels at Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo, assaulting students and allegedly raping female students.
Reacting in a statement on Friday, Obi described the reports as deeply disturbing and urged the military high command to conduct a transparent, impartial and comprehensive investigation into the allegations.
He said he was concerned by reports that students were allegedly assaulted, humiliated, dispossessed of their personal belongings, while some female students were reportedly subjected to degrading treatment, including rape.
“I have read with deep concern the troubling reports of soldiers invading students’ hostels at Osun State University, Osogbo, during which students were allegedly assaulted, humiliated, dispossessed of their personal belongings, and female students subjected to degrading treatment, including rape,” Obi said.
He stressed that every Nigerian deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, noting that the Armed Forces are respected for their courage, discipline and sacrifice in defending the country.
“Our Armed Forces are renowned for their courage, discipline, and sacrifice in defending our nation. They are not known for such barbarity against the very citizens they are sworn to protect,” he stated.
Obi urged the military authorities to ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice, saying accountability would not only deliver justice for the victims but also protect the integrity and honour of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“I therefore urge the military high command to conduct a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into these allegations. Anyone found culpable should be brought to justice. Holding offending personnel accountable will not only ensure justice for the victims but also preserve the honour and integrity of our Armed Forces while serving as a deterrent against future abuses,” he said.
According to Obi, a nation that respects human dignity inspires confidence in its institutions and must never tolerate impunity or abuse of power.
“A nation that respects human dignity builds confidence in its institutions. We must never tolerate impunity or the abuse of power,” Obi said.