By Ogochukwu Isioma
Vice President, University of Benin Alumni Association North America (UBAANA) chapter, Engr Osasere Favour Osifo, on Monday, paid a condolence visit to the family of Emeritus Professor Osayuki Godwin Oshodin, the late former Vice Chancellor, University of Benin.
Osifo, a former Students’ Union President under the late Oshodin, arrived at the deceased’s residence at about 10:30 a.m, on Monday, where prayers were offered for the repose of his soul.
He was received on the visit by Mrs Otasowie Oshodin, wife of the late first indigenous UNIBEN Vice Chancellor and former Registrar of the institution.
Engr Osifo, on behalf of the UBAANA President, Alex Eromwon, extended the condolence of the Association and sympathised with the Oshodin’s family over the demise of their breadwinner, who died in Benin City, on May 29 at the age of 71.
He described the late Oshodin as a “seasoned administrator” and “passionate leader”, who served his country meritoriously as Vice Chancellor of a federal institution.
Osifo said the late former Vice Chancellor did his best for the country in contributing his own quota as a University administrator, describing him as a “father of all.”
The UBAANA Vice President also prayed for the family left behind, especially the former Registrar Mrs Otasowie and her children, asking God for the fortitude to bear the loss.
“We can’t question God. He gives and takes. We pray that the Almighty recognises the many good deeds of Prof. for the country and humanity and grant him eternal rest in His bossom,” Osifo said.
“We understand your pain and share in it. Prof. was a fine gentleman and a father of all, who related well and helped all those who encountered him.
“His simplicity and warmth were indeed very touching. In this moment of grief, I pray to the Almighty to bestow strength upon you and your family to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.
During the visit, Engr Osifo also signed the Condolence Register, while assuring the ex-UNIBEN Registrar and wife of the deceased of his support and that of UBAANA in their moment of grief.
Responding, a son of the former Vice Chancellor, who spoke on behalf of the Family, thanked Engr Osifo for identifying with the Oshodins in their moment of grief.
On her part, Mrs Oshodin also thanked the UBAANA Vice President for finding time to visit, despite being in his mourning mood weeks after losing his own father.
Osifo, who is currently in Benin City for the funeral of his late father, was accompanied on the visit by former members of his administration including the incumbent Students’ Union President, Comr. Foster Amadin.
Others are Comrade Issac Ukponahiunsi, former Enogie of Benin students, UNIBEN; Barr. Osarodin Hope Imafidon, former Students’ Union Attorney-General; Joseph Itota, Director of Logistics and Ogochukwu Isioma, Publisher, CAMPUS GIST.
Photos from the visit below:
*Engr Osifo with Mrs Oshodin and others, on Monday.
*Engr Osifo signing the Condolence Register, on Monday.
