The management of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo in Oyo State has begun a probe into the alleged rape of a female student of the university reportedly by two of its vigilance group.
The incident, which left the academic community in disquiet, happened on the campus of the institution on Thursday.
A statement by the institution, signed by Olufemi John Atoyebi, Public Relations Officer, ACU, Oyo, read that “Management of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo received with shock a report of an alleged rape of one of our female students last night, Thursday May 9, 2024 by two members of our vigilance group.
“The Management promptly handed over to the police, the two people alleged to have committed the crime while the university has set up its own internal panel of inquiry to investigate the allegation.
“The Management wishes to assure all stakeholders that ACU will not tolerate any act of misconduct capable of tarnishing its enviable image.
“Raising Godly intellectuals is our primary goal in ACU and we will not allow any act of misconduct capable of diverting our attention from our goal. Heavy penalty awaits anyone who is found culpable after our thorough investigation.
Meanwhile, the students union of the institution, in a statement dated Friday, May 10, jointly signed by its President, Ibukunoluwa Taiwo, and General Secretary, Hebron Olayiwola, titled, ‘Incident response and commitment to justice,’ described the incident that occurred within the campus premises as distressing.
It read, “We understand the concerns and anxieties this has raised among all of us. As your leaders, we want to assure you that the ACUSA executives, the university management and especially the Vice Chancellor, have been actively engaged in addressing this matter with utmost seriousness and urgency.
“Early this morning, at about 1am, the vice-chancellor and the students assembly’s president took the culprits to police custody and have followed up with the investigation since then. We also commend the vice-chancellor for not sparing any of the university’s resources to ensure a smooth and speedy investigation, making available the university vehicles, personnel and funds to help the police with their investigations.
“Up until now, the Chairman of the security committee, Prof. Ayodabo; the Dean of Students Affairs Dr Roland Isibor; the Sub Dean of Students Affairs, Dr C.S Ojo; the ACUSA President, Ibukunoluwa Taiwo; and other executives have been at the police station ensuring that justice is served on time.
“We want to emphasize that there is no attempt to cover up this incident. Our primary focus is on ensuring justice for the affected student and maintaining the safety and security of all members of our university.
“Immediate steps have been taken to investigate the incident thoroughly, and we are collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly.
“Additionally, we are providing comprehensive support services to the affected student, including counselling and other necessary resources to assist her through this difficult time.”
The statement urged the students to approach the incident with sensitivity, empathy and respect for the privacy of the affected student.
“Let us stand together as a community in solidarity against any form of misinformation that will complicate matters or misinform the public.
“Regular updates have been shared since the beginning of the investigation by the students body and media bodies on campus. The public should hereby disregard any other information from other quarters,” it added.
