CHSR Raises Alarm Over Alleged Cover-Up, Intimidation in AAUA Rape Case

by Ajibola Adedoye

The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) has raised a serious alarm over what it describes as an unfolding attempt to suppress, manipulate, and intimidate key parties in the rape case involving Miss Isola Oyinkansola, a 20-year-old student of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA).

In a statement issued on Friday, CHSR said it has submitted formal petitions to the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa; the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice; the Commissioner of Police; and the Vice Chancellor of AAUA, calling for urgent intervention to protect the survivor, preserve evidence, and ensure an impartial investigation.

According to CHSR, the incident occurred on Friday, November 21, 2025, when the survivor visited the home of her longtime friend, identified as Queen Sodo, at Cele Street in Akungba. The group alleges that Miss Oyinkansola was served an alcoholic drink laced with substances that rendered her unconscious.

CHSR reports that after she became incapacitated, Queen allegedly invited an accomplice, Mr. Tom Samuel, a Sociology student at AAUA, who is accused of raping the unconscious victim while Queen stood guard.

A neighbour, reportedly alarmed by noises from the room, entered and found the victim unconscious. The individual recorded video evidence that has become central to the case. CHSR further states that both suspects confessed to the crime, and medical examination at Iwaro General Hospital allegedly confirmed injuries consistent with violent sexual assault.

The rights group warns that the case is now at risk due to intimidation, institutional lapses, and attempts to obstruct justice.

According to the organisation:

• The primary male suspect allegedly boasted that his mother, a serving police officer, would secure his release.
• The survivor and the key eyewitness have allegedly received death threats from individuals, including one identified as Peculiar Sam.
• The eyewitness who recorded the video has reportedly retreated from advocacy due to safety concerns but remains willing to testify in court.

CHSR also alleges that early stages of the case at the Akungba Police Division were marred by delays and attempts to quietly bury the matter, prompting emergency escalation to Akure with support from FIDA and gender rights advocates.

The group criticized the conduct of certain institutions involved in the case, claiming:

• The AAUA Student Union failed to support the survivor.
• A state prosecutor allegedly trivialized court proceedings.
• A manipulated video clip presented by the defense was played in court without objection.
• The survivor’s phone was seized under questionable circumstances during a court sitting.

“These developments pose a serious threat to the integrity of the judicial process, the safety of the survivor, and the rights of women and students across Ondo State,” CHSR stated.

The case, initially handled in Akungba, was transferred to Akure on November 24. It was charged to court the following day and had a second hearing on November 26. The next court sitting is scheduled for Monday, December 8, 2025.

CHSR says it is monitoring proceedings closely and vows that it will not allow the matter to be suppressed.

The organisation is urging the Ondo State Government and other relevant authorities to:

1. Provide security protection for the survivor and eyewitness.
2. Assign a competent, gender-sensitive prosecutor.
3. Investigate all threats and alleged interference, including the claim involving the suspect’s mother.
4. Ensure transparent and independent monitoring of court proceedings.
5. Prevent any actions by AAUA or its student union that could undermine justice.
6. Offer psychosocial support to the survivor.
7. Review the conduct of all institutions involved in alleged delays or mishandling of the case.

CHSR described the matter as “a critical test of the state’s commitment to justice, women’s safety, and campus security,” and called on Nigerians, civil society groups, women’s rights advocates, students, the media, community leaders, and online activists to monitor developments and resist any attempt to silence the survivor.

“This matter must not be swept under the carpet,” said CHSR President, Comrade Alex Omotehinse.

 

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