Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into disturbing allegations that soldiers invaded student hostels at Osun State University, allegedly assaulting students, dispossessing them of their belongings, and subjecting some female students to sexual violence.
In a statement released on Friday, Obi said he was deeply disturbed by reports that soldiers stormed students’ hostels in Osogbo, where students were allegedly beaten, humiliated, robbed of personal belongings, and female students reportedly suffered degrading treatment, including rape.
Describing the allegations as deeply troubling, Obi stressed that every Nigerian deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, noting that the Nigerian Armed Forces have earned a reputation for courage, discipline, and sacrifice in defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
“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 said.
Obi urged the military high command to launch a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation into the allegations and ensure that any personnel found culpable are brought to justice.
According to him, holding offending officers accountable will not only deliver justice to the victims but also safeguard the honour and integrity of the Armed Forces while deterring future abuses.
He further emphasized that a nation that respects human dignity inspires confidence in its institutions and warned that impunity and abuse of power must never be tolerated.
Obi concluded his statement with his signature message: “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
