A counter-claim has emerged in the ongoing dispute between an interior decorator and his client in Delta State, disputing earlier allegations that a 70-year-old man was assaulted during the disagreement.

The fresh account, obtained in Warri, maintained that no such incident occurred, contradicting claims previously made by the decorator, Emmanuel Afejuku, who alleged that his father was attacked by individuals in military uniform.

According to the counter-narrative, the dispute originated from an interior decoration contract awarded by Emmanuella Ufuoma Oghenede, described as an acquaintance of the decorator, shortly after she moved into a residence in the state.

The source alleged that after payments were made based on agreed specifications, the materials supplied did not meet expectations, leading to complaints. It further claimed that the decorator abandoned the project before completion and was unreachable for several weeks.

In an effort to resolve the issue, Oghenede was said to have visited the decorator’s residence accompanied by security personnel due to safety concerns in the area. During the visit, only the decorator’s father was present, and he was reportedly asked to pass a message requesting his son’s return to complete the project.

The account insisted that no confrontation or assault took place during the visit.

It was further gathered that the decorator subsequently initiated legal action, alleging assault and seeking damages.

However, the counter-claim stated that the matter was later reported to the police and adjudicated in court, where no evidence of assault was found.

According to the source, the court directed the decorator to complete the outstanding work and refund any unutilised funds, which he reportedly complied with.

The case continues to draw attention following the conflicting accounts from both parties over the circumstances surrounding the dispute.