Killer cops: Delta governor hails IGP for approving dismissal, prosecution of killer-police officers

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has condemned the extra-judicial killing of Ogidi Mene, a suspect, by police officers attached to Effurun Area Command, even as he hailed the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) for approving the dismissal of the officers involved.

A defenceless Mene was shot to death on April 26, by Nuhu Usman-led team of police officers, culminating in massive outcry for justice for the slain youth.

In response to the massive outcry, the Nigeria Police Force, Wednesday disclosed the disciplinary actions taken following the fatal shooting.

A statement by Anthony Okon, Force Public Relations Officer (PPRO), made available to BusinessDay, revealed that the IGP, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, had earlier directed all officers connected to the incident to be immediately withdrawn from the Delta State Command and transferred to Force Headquarters, Abuja, where they were subjected to expedited disciplinary proceedings.

He stated that the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC), alongside other internal disciplinary processes, has concluded its review. “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 recommended the immediate dismissal of ASP Usman and other officers found culpable. The Inspector-General of Police also approved the recommendations and forwarded same to the Police Service Commission for ratification in line with due process.

“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 IGP extended his deepest and most solemn condolences to the family of the deceased, Mene while acknowledging 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.

He urged members of the public 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.

Oborevwori, while commending the IGP and the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for the swift and decisive disciplinary actions taken, including the approval for dismissal and prosecution of the officers found culpable, described the move as a strong signal of accountability and a step towards restoring public confidence in the system.

He insisted that all officers implicated in the heinous act, as captured in the widely circulated video, must be thoroughly investigated and brought to justice in accordance with the law., adding that justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done.

While assuring the bereaved family of the State Government’s full support in pursuance of the matter, Oborevwori reaffirmed that Delta State will closely follow up the case to its logical conclusion.

He pledged that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring that justice is served and that such tragic incidents are prevented in the future.

He called on residents to remain calm and law-abiding, reiterating his administration’s commitment to the protection of lives, the rule of law, and the promotion of a just and humane society.