Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly condemned the extrajudicial killing of Mene Ogidi by a police officer in Effurun, Delta State. The incident occurred on April 26, 2026, when officers from the Effurun Area Command acted on intelligence from the Benin Motor Park along the Warri–Sapele Expressway. According to a statement from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the suspect was held by a transport union while attempting to waybill a parcel containing a Beretta pistol and four rounds of ammunition. During the arrest, the team leader, ASP Nuhu Usman, allegedly discharged his firearm unlawfully, resulting in Ogidi's death.
Obi's Reaction
Reacting via a post on his official X account, Obi described the killing as not only barbaric but also a grave violation of the rule of law. He stated, "Over time, human society has moved away from an era when lives could be taken without consequence. Through the evolution of civilization, a fundamental principle has emerged: no one should be punished or deprived of life without due process and a fair determination of guilt." Obi emphasized that such acts inflict unimaginable trauma on the bereaved family and deepen public anxiety in an already distressed society. He noted that Nigerians are already traumatized by recurring reports of brutal killings by terror organizations, and incidents involving state actors only worsen that psychological burden and erode public confidence in safety and security.
Call for Justice
Obi commended the prompt response of the police authorities so far and expressed confidence that they will pursue the matter to its logical conclusion. He urged the police and all security agencies to sustain this approach by acting with transparency and accountability. Furthermore, he called for more rigorous recruitment processes to ensure that only individuals of sound judgment and the right frame of mind are entrusted with firearms. Obi concluded that these measures can restore public trust and uphold justice, both of which are indispensable to building a new Nigeria that is possible.
Police Response
The NPF had earlier condemned the fatal shooting of the 28-year-old Ogidi, explaining that the officer involved and his team face disciplinary action. Police authorities ordered the immediate transfer of the officer and his team to the Force Headquarters, Abuja, to face the Force Disciplinary Committee and possible prosecution. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunde Disu, extended his condolences to the victim's family, assured that justice will be served, and urged calm as investigations continue. Disu reiterated the Force's zero-tolerance stance on extrajudicial actions and abuse of authority.
PSC Condemnation
Similarly, the Police Service Commission (PSC) condemned Ogidi's killing, describing it as a violation of Nigerian laws, the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and international humanitarian standards. The commission commended the Delta State Commissioner of Police for initiating disciplinary measures, including the suspension and interdiction of the officers involved pending investigation. The PSC also extended its condolences to the bereaved family, calling for calm as the process of justice unfolds.
