…..Demands Immediate Federal and Osun State Probe, Warns of Mass Protest at Defence Headquarters
Frontline Civil Society Organization, the Campaign for Democracy (CD) has condemned in the strongest possible terms the alleged invasion and brutal attack on students of Osun State University, reportedly carried out on Monday night by newly recruited personnel of the Nigerian Army.
According to disturbing reports, armed military recruits allegedly stormed student hostels, physically assaulted male students, brutalized residents, and subjected several female students to various forms of sexual harassment and intimidation. The incident, if confirmed, represents a shocking abuse of power and a grave assault on the rights, dignity, and safety of Nigerian students.
“This is a national disgrace and a direct affront to democratic values. The shameful conduct allegedly displayed by these military personnel is unacceptable, barbaric, and completely incompatible with the principles of a constitutional democracy,”
Speaking through its National Secretary, Comrade Olufemi Lawson, the Campaign for Democracy expressed outrage that young Nigerians pursuing their education could be terrorized in their hostels by individuals expected to protect the nation. The organization warned that the increasing involvement and interference of military personnel in civilian spaces poses a dangerous threat to democratic governance and civil liberties.
The Campaign for Democracy therefore demands, for an an immediate and transparent investigation by the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Osun State Government into the alleged invasion.
The identification, arrest, and prosecution of all military personnel found culpable.
Medical, psychological, and legal support for all affected students, especially victims of alleged sexual harassment.
A public apology from the relevant military authorities to the students and management of UNIOSUN.
Immediate measures to prevent further military intimidation of civilians across the country.
The organization further issued a seven-day ultimatum to the authorities, warning that failure to bring the perpetrators to justice would leave Nigerians with no option but to demand accountability through peaceful mass action.
“If within the next seven days no concrete action is taken and the perpetrators are not brought to book, the Campaign for Democracy, alongside other pro-democracy and civil society organizations, will mobilize Nigerians for a mass protest and picket at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja. We will not stand by while students are treated like enemies in their own country.”
CD noted with deep concern what it described as a growing pattern of military overreach in civilian affairs, warning that such conduct revives painful memories of authoritarian rule and undermines public confidence in democratic institutions.
“Nigeria fought hard to end military dictatorship. Any attempt, direct or indirect, to normalize military intimidation of civilians is dangerous and must be resisted by all lovers of democracy. Our campuses must remain centers of learning, not theatres of fear.”
The Campaign for Democracy called on student bodies, parents, human rights organizations, and all democratic forces in Nigeria to stand in solidarity with the affected students and insist on justice.