The Ogun State Police Command has apprehended 31-year-old Olarewaju Idris, who is alleged to have sexually assaulted multiple female students from Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun. The arrest was confirmed by the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, who detailed the circumstances leading to Idris’s capture. According to Odutola, Idris was tracked to a well-known hotel in Erinwo, Ijebu-Ode, where he was taken into custody on a recent Saturday. This operation was the culmination of investigative efforts following reports from victims.
Details of the Assaults
The initial report involved an 18-year-old student from TASUED’s Library and Information Department. She recounted meeting Idris at a lounge in Ijebu-Ode, where he allegedly threatened her with a knife, forced her into a secluded area, and raped her. Odutola narrated the victim’s ordeal: “At approximately 6:00 am, the survivor arrived at the police station, visibly shaken. She recounted how, around 1:00 am, the suspect approached her at the club and, under the threat of a knife, forcibly dragged her away to a nearby street, where he raped her before fleeing into the darkness.”
Shortly after this report, another student, a 300-level attendee of the same university, came forward with a similar account. She alleged that between 2:00 am and 3:30 am, Idris lured her onto a motorcycle, took her to Magun Hotel in Ijebu-Ode, and raped her, leaving her with severe bruises. Both victims were promptly taken to Ijebu-Ode State Hospital for urgent medical attention.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Assurance
The Ogun State Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to a thorough investigation. Odutola emphasized that the suspect is in lawful custody and that the police are dedicated to ensuring justice is served. She stated, “As investigations continue, the public can rest assured that the police are committed to ensuring justice is served.”
Previous Incidents and University Response
This arrest is not an isolated incident concerning the safety of TASUED students. In October 2024, the police apprehended another individual, Shedrack Olayemi, who was on the wanted list for armed robbery and the alleged rape of several female students from the same university. Olayemi was captured following intelligence reports indicating his presence in the Ijagun area, where he had been hiding to evade arrest.
In response to these alarming events, TASUED’s spokesperson, Mrs. Ayotunde Odubela, highlighted ongoing efforts to bolster security within student residential areas. She acknowledged the challenges posed by the fact that many students reside off-campus, which complicates security measures. Mrs. Odubela noted, “We have implemented some security measures on campus, but the challenge remains that most of our students reside off-campus.”
Enhancing Security Measures
Following previous incidents, the university has taken steps to improve safety. Governor Dapo Abiodun, through his deputy, visited the university and promised to enhance security in the host community. Subsequently, a police post was established and is now fully operational. Additionally, other security personnel have been conducting regular patrols in most of the host communities. Mrs. Odubela elaborated, “After the last incident, Governor Dapo Abiodun, through his deputy, visited the university and promised to enhance security in the host community. Subsequently, a police post was built. And as we speak, it is fully operational. Other security personnel apart from the police have been on regular patrol in most of the host communities since then.”
Community and Student Safety Initiatives
The recurring incidents have prompted calls for increased vigilance and proactive measures within the university community. Security experts recommend that students avoid isolated places, especially during late hours, and always inform friends or roommates of their whereabouts. Establishing an effective communication system between the university and security operatives is also crucial. This includes having security personnel in plain clothes monitoring activities around the campus and its environs. A security consultant emphasized, “There should be an effective system of communication between schools and the security operatives to know what’s going on and about the movements of everyone.”
University’s Commitment to Student Welfare
The Tai Solarin University of Education has reiterated its commitment to the safety and well-being of its students. The institution’s Security Unit, operating directly under the Vice Chancellor’s office, is tasked with maintaining peace and security across all university campuses, including Ijagun Main Campus, Ososa Mini Campus, and TASUED Staff School in Igbeba. The unit is dedicated to the safety and welfare of students, staff, and visitors through the adoption of best security practices that support the university’s vision and mission.
Conclusion
The arrest of Olarewaju Idris marks a significant step in addressing the security concerns affecting TASUED students. While the university and law enforcement agencies have implemented measures to enhance safety, continuous vigilance and proactive strategies remain essential. The university community is urged to remain alert, report suspicious activities promptly, and collaborate with authorities to ensure a secure learning environment for all.
