UNIBEN VC raises eyebrow over undergraduate rape, murder case

By Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

The Management of University of Benin (UNIBEN) in Edo State has raised eyebrows over the delay in police investigation into the circumstances that led to the death of its undergraduate, Miss Uwaila Vera Omozuwa who was allegedly raped and tortured by suspected rapists in Redeem church before she died two months ago.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Lilian Salami disclosed this when she visited the Edo State Police Commissioner, Mr. Johnson Kokumo, to solicit Police support in crime prevention and management in the ivory tower.
22-year-old 100 levels Microbiology student of the University, had triggered a massive protests and condemnation by the Government and Nigerians who demanded justice into the incident.
The Public Relations Officer of University of Benin (UNIBEN), Dr (Mrs.) Benedicta Ehanire in a statement on Monday quoted Prof. Salami as saying that hearts were still heavy over the circumstances of Miss Omozuwa’s death while the perpetrators of the crime are yet to be brought to book.
“Professor Salami urged the police to do all in their power to ensure that no stone is left unturned in their investigation of the crime” which has set tongues wagging.
Responding, Edo State Police Commissioner, Mr Babatunde Johnson Kokumo, intimated the Vice Chancellor with efforts made so far to bring the culprits to justice, following the arrest of two key suspects linked to the tragedy.
He described the Deoxyribonucleic Acid, DNA and Forensics study Centre of the University of Benin as one of the best in the Country, stating that the Police will be happy to collaborate with the University to train their officers in forensics.
The Vice Chancellor was accompanied on the visit by Principal Officers of the University.
Recall that the Management of the University had paid a condolence visit to the grieving parents of the deceased at Ohovbe quarters in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.