UNIBEN professor ‘shot dead’

Paul Otasowie, a professor in the department of electrical and electrical electronics engineering at University of Benin, Edo state, was reportedly killed by suspected gunmen on Wednesday evening.

The incident occurred ten days after three policemen were shot dead as gunmen abducted Andy Ehanire, chief executive officer of  Ogba zoo and nature park in Oredo local government area of the state.

Michael Osasuyi, spokesman of the institution, told PUNCH that Otasowie was shot dead by the armed men in front of his residence on Ekehuan road in Oredo local government area of the state.

“We lost him (Otasowie) yesterday. We are trying to gather the right information now (because) we are getting different versions,” Osasuyi said.

“The first version said that it was an assassination (while) the second version said that it was armed robbery, that he was inside a car and they shot him.”

Osasuyi described the death of the professor as a huge loss to the university community, adding that he was a hardworking and dedicated staff.

He said the institution was concerned about the level of insecurity in the state.

“For now, the university cannot ascertain what has transpired. But we are sending delegates now to the house to meet with the family,” Osasuyi said.

“We commiserate with the family and it is a big blow to the university. He was one of the persons who have ensured that work is done and done well.

“The vice-chancellor, Prof. Orunmwense is saddened with this development. We just wish that this insecurity in Edo State is looked into. Just recently, (Joseph) Osayomore was kidnapped.

“The level of insecurity now is becoming something else. The vice-chancellor commiserates with the family and the school is mourning.”