NANNM has called for independent probe into military invasion of UNIOSUN hostels – We call on the federal government to fish out and punish those behind the alleged abuses – In a statement issued on Monday the group condemned the alleged invasion – The group called for probe after reports that soldiers stormed UNIOSUN students’ off-campus hostels.
The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has condemned the alleged invasion of student hostels of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) by the personnel of the Nigerian Army and demanded a swift and independent investigation into reports of assault, harassment, and other forms of abuses.
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The association said the reports were disturbing and expressed the hope that the federal government would identify those found culpable in the alleged acts, should they be verified, and apply sanctions. “Young people are the future of the nation and should be protected in their learning environment, not harassed or brutalised.
NANNM reiterates that our youth should not be treated as second class citizens in their own country,” a statement by the group said.
It said it was worried by allegations of the alleged invasion that recently took place in some off-campus students’ hostels in Osogbo.
According to students, some newly recruited soldiers from the Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, allegedly stormed the hostels, physically assaulted some male students, molested some female students and carted away their personal belongings.
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Osun State University management, led by Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Odunayo Adebooye, condemned the alleged military invasion and called for the perpetrators to be punished.
The Nigerian Army had constituted a Board of Inquiry to investigate the alleged invasion.
A statement by the Army appealed to the victims and witnesses of the incident to forward any evidence such as video footage, photographs, medical records, and witness accounts to the investigating team.
It pledged a comprehensive, unbiased and transparent investigation. It warned that personnel found guilty of any unprofessional conduct would be sanctioned in accordance with the military law and rules of engagement.
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NANNM admonished the investigators to ensure their work was credible and impartial. “We demand an unbiased probe that leaves no stone unturned to ascertain the true facts. Public confidence will hinge on a credible, transparent investigation process to establish justice,” the association said.
