Suspected bandits have killed a retired teacher and farmer, Andrew Imuekheme, in the Ikabigbo community of Uzairue Kingdom, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The attack happened on Tuesday, August 12, while the victim was returning from his farm. Reports indicate that Imuekheme was abducted and dragged into the bush by armed men. A woman who was also seized managed to escape and ran back to the community to alert vigilantes and local hunters, who quickly organized a search party.
As word spread, residents still working on their farms were called home to prevent further attacks. Searchers later found Imuekheme’s motorcycle and shoes before discovering his body later in the evening.
The traditional ruler, Chief Braimah Alegeh, condemned the killing and described the community as peace-loving, urging the state government and security agencies to intervene.
“We are predominantly farmers and peace-loving people; the government and security agents should come to our aid so that we can have peace,” he said.
This marks the third killing of its kind in the community. Two years ago, a Catholic Reverend Father and a hunters’ chairman were murdered after the priest was kidnapped.
