Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has condemned the extrajudicial killing of Mene Ogidi by a police officer in Effurun, Delta state.

An armed police officer, now identified as Nuhu Usman, attached to the Delta State Police Command shot Mr Ogidi at close range. 

“The extrajudicial killing of a young Nigerian Mr. Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State, by a police officer, is not only barbaric but also a grave violation of the rule of law,” the opposition leader said in a statement on Wednesday. 

The incident, captured in a video on Tuesday, has since triggered public outrage and renewed concerns over police brutality in the country.

He said the killing underscore the urgent need for accountability within Nigeria’s security agencies and adherence to due process in the administration of justice.

Mr Obi added, “Over time, human society has moved away from an era when lives could be taken without consequence. Through the evolution of civilisation, a fundamental principle has emerged: no one should be punished or deprived of life without due process and a fair determination of guilt.”

He said the killing would deepen public anxiety, noting that Nigerians are already grappling with insecurity and repeated incidents of violence across the country.

According to him, actions involving state actors further erode public confidence in safety and security institutions.

Mr Obi, however, acknowledged the response of the police authorities, commending what he described as a prompt reaction to the incident. 

He called on the police authorities to ensure that investigation is conducted transparently, while advising that those responsible are held accountable.

The Delta police command had earlier confirmed the incident, revealing that the officer involved, Mr Usman had been arrested and is undergoing disciplinary procedures.