From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Edo State Police Command has arrested three suspects in connection with the killing of a Senior Lecturer of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Prof. Paul Otasowie.
Otasowie, who was a professor at the Faculty of Engineering (Department of Electrical/Electronics), was shot dead on Wednesday night, by gunmen in his premises, located off Siluko Road in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo state.
Spokesman of the Edo state Police Command, Moses Nkombe, who confirmed the killing, said three suspects have been arrested, in connection with the incident.
He said a neighbour of the late professor alerted the police of sporadic shooting in his premises, and added that nothing was removed from the late Otasowie’s house.
The police boss added that the command is working hard to secure the release of Dr. Andy Ehanire and Benin popular Musician, Ambassador Osayomore Joseph, earlier abducted by suspected kidnappers in Benin.
There are, however, two conflicting versions of how Otasowie was killed.
One version said he was shot dead while coming down the stairs of his house while the other version said he was shot by assailants while driving into his premises.
Meanwhile, UNIBEN’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Michael Osasuyi, has said the institution is yet to ascertain details of how Otasowie was killed from his family.
He described his death as a huge loss to the university community and added that the deceased was a hard-working and dedicated staff.
“For now, the university cannot ascertain what transpired. But, we are sending delegates to the house to meet with the family.
“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.”
He added that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Faraday Orunmwense was “saddened with this development.
The level of insecurity now is becoming something else. The vice-chancellor commiserates with the family and the school is mourning,” he said.
Two weeks ago, three policemen deployed to Ogba Zoo and Nature’s Park in Benin were shot dead while the Executive Director, Ehanire, was kidnapped in the process.
Last Wednesday, a Catholic Priest, Fr. Lawrence Adorolo was also abducted at Okpella and later regained his freedom on Tuesday.
This week, ace musician, Ambassador Osayomore Joseph was abducted in Benin and is still being held by his abductors.