JUST IN: Nigerian Army orders probe over alleged assault on students in Osun state

The Depot Nigerian Army in Osogbo has ordered an investigation into allegations that some of its personnel assaulted students in Osun State.

The directive follows allegations made by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-west Zone D.

In a statement on Tuesday, Major Yahaya Ibrahim, spokesman of the depot, said the commandant had directed a thorough investigation to establish the facts and ensure accountability.

Part of the statement read: “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.”

The Army appealed to the NANS South-west coordinator, Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, to provide evidence and witness statements to support the allegations.

“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.

“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 Army stated.

The Army added that the commandant was ready to meet with the leadership of NANS to discuss the incident and agree on the way forward.