Mene Ogidi extra-judicial killing – The shocking killing of 28-year-old Mene Ogidi in Effurun, Delta State, has triggered widespread outrage across Nigeria, with fresh calls for police accountability and an end to extra-judicial executions.
Ogidi, a young man described by friends and family as an aspiring musician, was allegedly shot dead by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nuhu Usman, also known as “Ogbegbe,” under circumstances that have raised serious questions about abuse of power and disregard for due process.
Mene Ogidi extra-judicial killing: How It Happened
According to eyewitness accounts and police findings, Mene Ogidi had gone to the Effurun Main Park, located along the Warri-Sapele Expressway, to collect a waybill reportedly sent to him by an acquaintance.
However, while attempting to receive the parcel, transport workers reportedly became suspicious and demanded that he open it. Upon inspection, the package was said to contain a Beretta pistol loaded with four rounds of live ammunition.
Ogidi immediately insisted that he had been sent by a friend to collect the package and pleaded with those at the park to allow him to explain. He reportedly offered to lead authorities to the person who had sent him.
Rather than take matters into their own hands, the park leadership restrained him and alerted the police, specifically the Effurun Area Command, for proper investigation.
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Mene Ogidi extra-judicial killing: Fatal Encounter With Police
Following the report, a police team led by ASP Nuhu Usman was dispatched to the scene.
Witnesses alleged that upon arriving and seeing the firearm, the officer became visibly agitated. In the presence of a crowd, and despite the suspect already being restrained, Usman allegedly fired at Ogidi at close range.
“Officers, abeg, I go tell you everything. Na my friend deceive me. E dey Sapele. I go carry you go the place.”
Despite his pleas, he was shot.
He was then bundled into a police vehicle and taken to Ekpan Police Station while still alive, according to multiple accounts.
Allegation of a Second Shooting
Eyewitnesses and activists have alleged that upon arrival at the station, Ogidi was brought out of the police vehicle, where ASP Usman allegedly shot him multiple times again, killing him before any formal interrogation could take place.
These claims have intensified public anger, especially as Ogidi had reportedly expressed willingness to cooperate fully with investigators.
Many observers have questioned why a suspect who could have provided vital information about an alleged arms trafficking network was killed before he could make a formal statement.
Police Confirm Extra-Judicial Killing
The Delta State Police Command has officially described the incident as an extra-judicial killing.
“The police officer leading the team, ASP Nuhu Usman, in clear violation of Force Order 237 and the Standard Operating Procedure of the Nigeria Police Force, discharged his firearm, leading to the death of the suspect.”
The statement was issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe.
Immediate Action Taken
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, immediately ordered the arrest of ASP Nuhu Usman.
The officer was first transferred to the Delta State Police Headquarters in Asaba before being moved to Force Headquarters in Abuja.
He is expected to face the Force Disciplinary Committee, where he could be dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force and prosecuted for murder.
The Inspector-General of Police has also directed that members of the officer’s team be transferred to Abuja as investigations continue.
Growing Calls for Justice
The killing has reignited national concerns over police brutality, abuse of authority, and the continued violation of citizens’ rights by some law enforcement officers.
Human rights advocates insist that the case must not end with internal disciplinary measures alone. They are demanding a transparent criminal prosecution to ensure justice for Mene Ogidi and his family.
Even if Ogidi was found in possession of an illegal firearm, legal experts stress that he was entitled to due process under Nigerian law. Summary execution is both unlawful and unconstitutional.
A Test Case for Police Reform
This case will likely become another defining moment in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against police brutality.
For many Nigerians, justice in this case will not simply mean the dismissal of one officer. It will require a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing, including whether other officers played any role or attempted to cover up the incident.
Until then, the death of Mene Ogidi remains a painful reminder of the urgent need for deeper police reforms and stronger accountability mechanisms.
Justice delayed must not become justice denied.
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