The Nigeria Police Force has arrested Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Usman Nuhu following a viral video that captured the extrajudicial killing of a restrained suspect in Effurun, Delta State. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and prompted the Inspector-General of Police to promise a thorough investigation and prosecution.
Details of the Incident
The victim, identified as Mene Ogidi, 28, was reportedly apprehended by members of a transport union at a motor park along the Warri–Sapele Expressway. According to police, he was attempting to waybill a parcel suspected to contain a Beretta pistol with four rounds of ammunition. Officers from the Effurun Area Command responded to the scene, but what followed has drawn severe criticism.
A video circulating on social media shows Ogidi sitting on the ground with his hands tied behind his back. Moments later, a plainclothes officer shoots him at close range. The footage has raised serious concerns about the use of force and adherence to police rules of engagement in Nigeria.
Police Response and Arrest
Bright Edafe, spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, confirmed that the officer involved has been taken into custody and transferred to Abuja for further investigation and disciplinary proceedings. Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi also confirmed the development, stating that the police leadership has ordered immediate action.
The police statement read: "While efforts were being made to take the suspect into lawful custody, the team leader, ASP Nuhu Usman, discharged his firearm in clear violation of extant regulations, resulting in the death of the suspect."
IGP Promises Justice
The Inspector-General of Police extended condolences to the family of the deceased and assured them that justice would be served. "The Nigeria Police Force maintains a zero-tolerance stance on extra-judicial actions, abuse of authority, and any conduct that undermines public trust," the statement added. The officer and his team will face a disciplinary committee, with possible prosecution to follow.
Broader Concerns
This incident has reignited concerns about police brutality and accountability in Nigeria, years after the End SARS protests. Despite repeated promises of reform, rights groups say incidents of excessive force and extrajudicial killings still occur, often with slow or unclear outcomes. Under Nigerian law, suspects must be arrested and charged in court; lethal force is only permitted in extreme situations such as self-defence or preventing serious harm. Many Nigerians are now watching closely to see if the promised accountability materializes.
