Police to dismiss ASP, three others who killed restrained civilian in Delta

The Nigeria Police Force has recommended the dismissal of Nuhu Usman, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP alongside three other officers over their alleged involvement in the extrajudicial killing of a civilian, Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State.

The decision was announced on Wednesday by Olatunji Disu,  Inspector-General of Police, during a press briefing at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

He said the recommendation followed findings and deliberations by the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC), which reviewed the case after it was escalated to his office.

According to the police chief, the conduct of the officers was found to be criminal and grossly unprofessional, stressing that such actions have no place within the Force.

He disclosed that upon receiving reports of the killing, he immediately ordered the transfer of all officers involved from the Delta State Command to Abuja to ensure an impartial investigation.

Disu explained that the officers were subjected to the Force’s internal disciplinary process without delay, noting that the FDC was already in session at the time investigations commenced.

He directed that ASP Usman and the other implicated officers appear directly before the committee to account for their actions.

“Following its review, the committee recommended the immediate dismissal of the officers and their prosecution for unlawful homicide”, he stated.

The IGP confirmed that he has forwarded the recommendation to the Police Service Commission for ratification, which is required before the dismissal can take effect.

Reaffirming the Force’s stance on accountability, Disu stated that no level of suspicion against any citizen justifies extrajudicial killing, underscoring the need for officers to operate strictly within the law.

He also extended condolences to the family of the deceased, acknowledging the gravity of the loss. “When a life is lost, no statement can fill the void,” he said.

The police boss further appealed to residents of Delta State and Nigerians at large to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that authorities are handling the matter and will ensure that justice is served in a swift and transparent manner.