By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has ordered the dismissal and prosecution of officers involved in the shooting of Mene Ogidi on Sunday, April 26, in Effurun, Delta State.
The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, disclosed this in a press statement issued on Wednesday, April 29.
The statement noted that the dismissal of the officers followed an earlier directive by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, that all officers connected to the incident be immediately withdrawn from the Delta State Command and transferred to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for expedited disciplinary proceedings.
According to the statement, the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC), alongside other internal disciplinary processes, found that the principal officer, ASP Nuhu Usman, acted in gross violation of Force Order 237 and other extant regulations governing the use of firearms.
It added that the officer’s actions “were unlawful, unprofessional, and a clear betrayal of the oath to protect life and uphold the law.”
“Findings established unequivocally that the principal officer, ASP Nuhu Usman, acted in gross violation of Force Order 237 and other extant regulations governing the use of firearms. His actions were unlawful, unprofessional, and a clear betrayal of the oath to protect life and uphold the law.
“Consequently, the FDC has recommended the immediate dismissal of ASP Nuhu Usman and other officers found culpable. The Inspector-General of Police has approved the recommendations and forwarded same to the Police Service Commission for ratification in line with due process,” the statement read.
It added that the affected officers would be handed over to appropriate judicial authorities for prosecution for their roles in the extrajudicial shooting after they had completed administrative procedures.
The statement added, “Upon completion of the administrative procedures, the affected officers will be handed over to the appropriate judicial authorities for prosecution for their roles in the extrajudicial shooting.
“The Inspector-General of Police reiterates, in the strongest terms, that the Nigeria Police Force maintains a zero-tolerance stance on extra-judicial actions and abuse of power. No uniform confers the right to take life outside the provisions of the law. Any officer who violates this fundamental principle will face the full weight of disciplinary and legal consequences.”
The statement further conveyed the IGP’s condolences to the family of Ogidi, and assured them of the force’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served in the case.
It stated, “The IGP extends his deepest and most solemn condolences to the family of the deceased, Mr Mene Ogidi. He acknowledges the pain and loss suffered and assures the family that this tragic incident will not be treated lightly.
“The Force is fully committed to ensuring that justice is not only served but seen to be served, in a manner that reinforces public confidence and institutional accountability.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and law-abiding, as the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its commitment to discipline, professionalism, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all citizens while ensuring accountability at all levels.”
