The Osun State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called for the immediate dismissal and prosecution of five Nigerian Army recruits allegedly involved in the rape of female students of Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo.

‎In a statement jointly signed by the Chairperson of Osun NAWOJ, Comrade Abisola Ariwodola, and the Secretary, Oluwaranti Ojewumi, the association condemned the alleged act in strong terms, describing it as barbaric, a gross abuse of power, and a betrayal of the constitutional responsibility of the Armed Forces to protect lives and property.

‎The association stated that sexual violence, particularly when perpetrated by individuals entrusted with safeguarding citizens, constitutes a grievous abuse of power and a direct violation of the rights, dignity and safety of women and girls.

‎”It is disheartening to note that men in uniform who ought to protect women and children are the ones allegedly perpetrating this dastardly act. The fact that such behaviour is coming from recruits just entering the security system makes them dangerous to society, the state and the country at large,” the statement said.

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‎Condemning the alleged sexual and gender-based violence, Osun NAWOJ called on the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to take immediate and decisive action.

‎The association specifically demanded the summary dismissal of the five recruits found culpable, in line with military regulations governing conduct unbecoming of personnel.

‎It also urged that the suspects be handed over to civil authorities for investigation and prosecution under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and other relevant statutes, warning against any attempt at delay or cover-up.

‎Furthermore, NAWOJ called on the university authorities, security agencies and relevant government ministries to provide medical, psychosocial and legal support to the survivors, while ensuring their safety and protection from intimidation.

‎Speaking on the matter, the Chairperson of Osun NAWOJ, Comrade Ariwodola, maintained that no individual should be shielded from justice because of their status or uniform.

‎”No uniform shields a rapist from justice. The military must demonstrate zero tolerance by acting decisively. Silence or delay erodes public trust and emboldens perpetrators,” she stated.

‎The association also commended the Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, and the university management for their response to the incident, particularly for standing by the students, assessing the situation and involving relevant authorities.

‎NAWOJ reaffirmed its commitment to amplifying the voices of survivors, holding institutions accountable and collaborating with security agencies, the Ministry of Women Affairs and civil society organisations to combat sexual and gender-based violence in Osun State.