The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, has ordered the dismissal and prosecution of Nuhu Usman, an assistant superintendent of police (ASP), and officers involved in the killing of an handcuffed suspect Mene Ogidi, in Efunrun, Delta state.
Mr Usman, a cop attached to the Delta State Police Command, was captured on video shooting Mr Ogidi to death. The incident drew widespread condemnation from Nigerians.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, police spokesperson Anthony Placid, said the force disciplinary committee (FDC), alongside other internal disciplinary processes, had concluded its review of the incident and established that the police officer acted in gross violation of Force Order 237 and other extant regulations governing the use of firearms.
“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,” Mr Placid stated.
He added that the affected officers would be handed over to the appropriate judicial authorities for prosecution for their roles in the extrajudicial shooting upon completion of the administrative procedures.
The IGP reiterated that the force maintained a zero-tolerance stance on extra-judicial actions and abuse of power.
He added, “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.”
While acknowledging the pain and loss suffered, Mr Disu assured the victim’s family that the tragic incident would not be treated lightly, urging members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding.
“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,” the statement stated.
