The Ekiti State Police have confirmed the arrest of a final year student of the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE), Olalekan Oni, following allegations of rape against a fellow male student.
The irony of the case is further compounded by the fact that Olalekan Oni, nicknamed Asiwaju, had recently presented a research project on youth involvement in criminal activity in the Oye Local Government Area.
Adding to the public outcry, a video has surfaced showing Olalekan Oni, the alleged rapist, being escorted by police officers through a gathering of onlookers. The video, which quickly spread online, captured the suspect dressed in a casual shirt and shorts, appearing disheveled and escorted by the police.
In the wake of the allegations against Olalekan Oni, the National Association of Ondo State Students (NAOSS) released a statement distancing itself from the accused individual.
“We want to clarify that the individual Oni Olalekan popularly known as Asiwaju accused of sexual assault and who has publicly denounced our association on Monday 10th of June 2024, is not a member, an executive or appointee of our association,” the statement read.
“We would like to clarify that this individual is not a member of our association nor has any affiliation with us.
“It is important to ensure that this distinction is clear to the general public and that any misinformation is addressed promptly.
“We take these matters very seriously and stand for a safe and inclusive environment for all our members. If you have any concerns or information that you think we should be aware of, please do not hesitate to reach out to the association board.
“Let’s continue to uphold our values and principles as we strive for a respectful and supportive community within our association.”
The Federal University Oye Ekiti Student Union (FUOYESU) also swiftly released a statement affirming its commitment to upholding the rights and welfare of its students. In the statement, the union stressed that it condemned the alleged actions of Olalekan Oni in the strongest possible terms, reaffirming its stance against sexual violence in all its forms.
Furthermore, the FUOYESU firmly declared that Olalekan Oni was not a member or in any way affiliated with the union.
The statement read, “Disclaimer. This is to inform the general public that Oni Olalekan, popularly known as (Asiwaju), is not a member of the Students’ Union Government nor is he an appointee of the Students’ Union Government.
“Any claims or assumptions to the contrary are incorrect. Please take note and disregard any misinformation.
“Please be assured that the FUOYESUG is actively addressing this matter and will take all necessary actions to ensure that justice is served. Thank you.”
Ekiti State Police Command spokesperson Abutu Sunday has confirmed that the accused student, Olalekan Oni, has been arrested and is currently in custody. In his statement, Abutu further disclosed that the suspect vehemently denied the allegations of sexual assault.
“Investigation has commenced, the suspect has been arrested and investigations have commenced because he is denying why the complainant is alleging, so we will see the result of the investigation,” Sunday said.
