By Adejesu and Elizabeth Ikegima
A lecturer at the University of Benin, Edo State, identified as Dr Osiki Odion, has reportedly slumped and died. Although the cause of death is unknown, the very painful and sad event was said to have occurred on the evening of Saturday, 19 November, 2022.
Before his demise, Dr Osiki was a lecturer at the department of History and International Studies in the Faculty of Arts. The event was said to be a shocking one for the faculty as it was recorded that the incident happened barely 24hours after a Lecturer from the department of English and Literature was laid to rest from the same faculty.
Tongues lamented in shock over the demise, as ACJ Uniben interviewed some students from the department.
“Anyone who knows me, know that Dr Osiki was literally my best lecturer in 100 level. It was just last week Thursday, that I was telling a friend that even till now, he is still my best lecturer and I was anticipating to learn from him again. Now, I am hearing that he is no more. Life is cruel,” Success Osika, a 200L student of History Education said.
“Omo! when I remember Osiki, water run down my eyes. This was not the type of song that I expected to sing, at least not in the next 30years time. Sadly, I have to sing it now. I’m pained and baffled!
At this point, I’m helpless. Who else would’ve captivated our attention as graciously as you did in 100L? Most of us were earnestly looking forward to being under your tutelage again in 400L. Sadly, this anticipation has been brought to a premature halt,” said David Okelue, another 200-level student of History Education.
“I had the thought of visiting your office, last week Wednesday, but I was reluctant. If I had adhered, at least I will get the chance to hear your voice, one last time.
Osiki, is one of the best lecturers that I have had so far. I also wish to be taught by him if possible, over and again like a form teacher.
Through him, I had got great motivation against anything that makes me feel I belong to an inferior faculty. Through his encouraging words, I now hold my faculty in high esteem. I still remember when he said; Education is the best faculty, as it comes with a lot of privileges.
I still hold on to these words. It’s really hard to say goodbye, but rest on Dr Osiki,” stated Judith, 200-level History Student
“Mr Osiki is a very nice man, his is principled, jovial and intelligent. He’s good at his job, because he knows it. I can still vividly remember some of the topics that he thought me in 100L and I can stand boldly at anytime to talk about them.
I feel like, God is taking the good people from this earth, because of how wicked the world has become.
Osiki have never been a promiscuous man, as I know him.” Taiwo, 300-level History Student.
Procession and Candle Session
Some students and lecturers greatly touched by the demise of Dr. Osiki, held a procession and candle session on Monday in his honour. The procession had students walk around Faculty of Arts, and Faculty of Education dressed in all Black.
Monday, 21 November was declared lecture-free day in the department of History and International Studies in honour of the late lecturer as students mourned in a sad atmosphere.
The candlelight session had in attendance the HOD of History and International Studies, UNIBEN, the elder brother of the deceased; Mr Monday Osiki, the twin brother of the deceased who works as a lecturer at the department of History and International Studies, University of Lagos; Dr Osiki Merit, students and lecturers from various departments.
The immediate past Ambassador of International Studies and Diplomacy, Blessing Iruo-Oghene Nelson, took the opening prayer and anchored the program.
“Osiki is very reliable, the one who we call and he answers, always after the welfare of his fellows… By 9am, Osiki body will be here in faculty tomorrow,” the H.O.D said.
Dr. Odion got nicknames like Uncle Osiki and Comrade Osiki from his colleagues and fellow lecturers. After an emotional candle session, Dr. O. B. Osadolor said the closing prayer and the session came to an end.
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