Army orders probe into assault on students

The Nigerian Army has ordered an investigation into allegations that some of its personnel assaulted and harassed students, following a petition by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Army Public Relations Officer of the Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, Major Yahaya Ibrahim, said the Commandant had directed a thorough investigation to establish the facts surrounding the allegations and ensure anyone found culpable is brought to justice.

The statement followed a press release by NANS Southwest Zone D accusing some soldiers of misconduct against students.

According to the Army, the institution remains committed to protecting all Nigerians, particularly young people, stressing that no law-abiding citizen should be subjected to harassment, intimidation or assault by security personnel.

“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,” the statement read.

To aid the investigation, the Army called on the NANS Southwest Zone D Coordinator, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, to provide all available evidence and witness statements relating to the alleged incident.

The Depot also maintained that the alleged actions do not reflect the values, training and professionalism expected of its personnel, assuring that any officer found guilty would face the full weight of military law.

It further disclosed that the Commandant was willing to meet with the leadership of NANS at the earliest opportunity to discuss the matter and chart a way forward.

The Army reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and maintaining the highest standards of discipline among its personnel.