Benin City, Edo State, was thrown into mourning over the weekend after gunmen brutally murdered a Europe-based man simply identified as Derrick, allegedly over a luxury gold necklace worth about N50 million.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the tragic incident on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, through its Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu. He explained that an investigation is already underway to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
How the incident happened
According to eyewitness accounts, the unfortunate incident occurred on the popular Igun Street in Benin City. Derrick, who had only recently returned to Nigeria from Europe, was reportedly in the area to purchase vehicle spare parts when he was ambushed by armed men.
Sources revealed that the gang, who arrived in a Lexus SUV, had likely trailed Derrick to the street. Once they approached him, they demanded that he surrender his expensive gold necklace. Witnesses claimed the piece was valued at an estimated ₦50 million, making it an attractive target for criminals.
However, Derrick allegedly refused to hand over the jewellery, questioning why he should part with it. His resistance appeared to anger the gunmen. One of them reportedly reached into their vehicle, pulled out a pump-action rifle, and shot the victim twice in the leg before forcefully removing the necklace from his neck.
Eyewitness account
An eyewitness narrated the chilling moment:
“I strongly suspect that the victim was trailed to Igun Street because he was only checking for motor spare parts when they suddenly emerged. They demanded his gold necklace, but he asked why he should hand it over. That reply angered them, and one of the assailants immediately fired at him. After shooting him, they removed the jewellery and fled the scene.”
Sympathisers quickly rushed Derrick to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. Sadly, doctors pronounced him dead on arrival, deepening the sorrow among family, friends, and residents who had gathered at the scene.
Police reaction and investigation
Speaking on the matter, CSP Moses Yamu of the Edo State Police Command assured the public that efforts are ongoing to arrest the culprits. He stressed that the command is determined to unravel the circumstances surrounding the gruesome killing and to recover the stolen necklace.
He added that such violent crimes cannot be tolerated in Edo State, urging residents to remain calm while the police intensify surveillance and investigation.
Community in shock
The killing has sparked widespread fear and outrage across Benin City. Residents described the incident as both shocking and heartbreaking, especially because the victim was well known in the area and had only just returned from abroad.
Some members of the community believe Derrick may have been specifically targeted because of his flashy lifestyle and the value of his gold necklace. Others called for stronger policing in busy commercial areas like Igun Street, which is popular for automobile parts trading.
This latest incident has again raised questions about the rising cases of violent robbery and targeted attacks in parts of Nigeria. Experts say criminal gangs are becoming increasingly bold, targeting wealthy individuals and expatriates who display signs of affluence.
Residents in Benin City have appealed to the state government and security agencies to take decisive action to curb such crimes and protect lives and properties. They warn that without proactive measures, more innocent lives could be lost to criminals who are ready to kill over luxury items.
The murder of Derrick over a gold necklace worth N50 million has left Edo State residents grieving and demanding justice. While the police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, many are hoping that the perpetrators will be swiftly apprehended and prosecuted.
As the community continues to mourn, the tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of violent crime and the urgent need for improved security measures in Nigeria.
