By Abdullah Egbakhimhe
Hoodlums numbering 11, have reportedly killed a 41-year-old furniture maker identified as Mr Aruna Imuekheme in Edo State.
It was gathered that the incident happened on Saturday when the 11-man gang stormed the deceased’s workshop located along Old Ahor Road, Eyean in Uhunmwode local government area of the State and beat him to death.
He was said to have been killed over a dispute arising from alleged work he had earlier completed and delivered to the owner about six months ago.
Speaking on the development, the deceased brother, Mr. Lukeman Imuekemhe, said the deceased had earlier completed the re-upholstering of his client’s job about six months ago.
“But, the same client, on Friday, September 5, 2025, returned to my brother’s workshop to demand that the same chairs be worked on again, claiming that the materials used for the upholstery work had compressed.
“My brother told them that the agreement was only to replace the old fabric witn new one, not replacing the foam”.
According to him, an argument allegedly broke out, and people around intervened, and they left, not knowing they had gone for reinforcement.
“The group returned the following day with at least 11 men. Eight men initially and followed by three others who arrived in an oxblood-coloured Toyota Venza SUV.
He explained that when they arrived the workshop, the deceased was not around. They therefore attempted to confiscate his tools and other items, which was resisted by his apprentices and nearby residents.
He said the incident resulted to the hoodlums attacking the deceased who was alerted and rushed back to the workshop, with dangerous weapons.
The hoodlums reportedly overpowered and beat him to stupor
The deceased was said to have been rushed to several hospitals by a good Samaritan for medical attention but they refused to admit him
He was taken to the Edo Specialist Hospital, where he was confirmed dead on arrival.
It was learnt that three suspects have been arrested by the State Police Command in connection with the incident.
The family of the deceased however, called on the Edo State Government and the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
