Police Officer Arrested, Moved to Abuja Over Killing of Suspect in Delta

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested an Assistant Superintendent of Police, Usman Nuhu, over the fatal shooting of a suspect in Effurun, Delta State, with authorities transferring him to Abuja for disciplinary action.

The incident, which occurred on Sunday, sparked outrage after a video surfaced online showing the victim, later identified as 28-year-old Mene Ogidi, seated on the ground with his hands tied behind his back before being shot at close range by an officer in plain clothes.

Confirming the development, the Delta State Police Command said the officer involved has been taken into custody and moved to the Force Headquarters for further investigation and disciplinary proceedings.

Police spokesperson in the state, Bright Edafe, said the action followed widespread concern over the circumstances surrounding the killing.

Further details provided by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, indicated that the suspect had earlier been apprehended while attempting to waybill a parcel allegedly containing a firearm.

According to him, officers attached to the Effurun Area Command had responded to intelligence from the Benin Motor Park along the Warri–Sapele Expressway, where members of a transport union reportedly intercepted the suspect.

“Preliminary reports indicate that operatives… responded to credible information… regarding a suspect apprehended… while attempting to waybill a parcel containing a Beretta pistol with four rounds of ammunition,” Placid said.

He explained that while efforts were underway to take the suspect into lawful custody, the team leader allegedly discharged his weapon in violation of established police procedures, resulting in the suspect’s death.

“While efforts were being made to take the suspect into lawful custody, the team leader… discharged his firearm in clear violation of extant regulations,” he added.

The police authorities have since ordered the transfer of the officer and members of his team to Abuja, where they are expected to face the Force Disciplinary Committee and possible prosecution.

The Inspector-General of Police extended condolences to the family of the deceased and assured that justice would be pursued in line with the law.

Police authorities also reiterated their stance against extra-judicial killings and abuse of power, stressing that any conduct that undermines public trust would not be tolerated.

The development has drawn attention to ongoing concerns about police conduct and the use of force, with calls for accountability growing louder following the circulation of the video.