The Nigerian Police Force has provided a comprehensive update on the tragic fatal shooting of 28-year-old singer Mene Ogidi by ASP Nuhu Usman in Effurun, Delta State. The incident, which sparked widespread outrage, has been thoroughly investigated, leading to the dismissal of the officer and his team.
How the Incident Unfolded
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, Mene Ogidi had received a parcel from a friend in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, delivered by a driver. After collecting the parcel, the deceased proceeded to a motor park to resend it to Sapele, with the name, address, and phone number of the intended receiver attached. The parcel was searched and found to contain a fabricated Beretta pistol and four rounds of 0.9mm live ammunition.
Citizens at the park effected a citizen's arrest of the deceased and subsequently contacted the police. ASP Nuhu and his team responded, and the suspect was formally handed over to him as team lead. However, rather than following standard operating procedures, ASP Nuhu shot and killed an unarmed, already apprehended suspect.
Investigation Findings
The remains of Mene Ogidi have been deposited at the mortuary, and a formal autopsy will be conducted by a certified pathologist. The police leadership ordered an immediate and thorough investigation by the police monitoring unit. The investigation established that the actions of ASP Nuhu and his team constituted professional misconduct, abuse of office, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace, culminating in the unlawful killing of Mr. Mene Ogidi.
Conclusion of Internal Investigation
Following the conclusion of investigations, ASP Nuhu and three other members of his team have been arrested and are currently in custody. Internal disciplinary procedures have been concluded against all officers found culpable. The force stated that all indicted officers have been recommended for dismissal from the Nigerian Police Force. The Police Service Commission has reviewed and ratified these recommendations, and the dismissal is confirmed and takes immediate effect. The case file has been formally forwarded to the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation for vetting and prosecution.
Other Suspects
The driver who delivered the parcel from Yenagoa, as well as two members of the vigilante group, remain at large. Tactical teams have been deployed to ensure their arrest and prosecution. DCP Placid reassured Nigerians, particularly the family of Mene Ogidi, that justice will be served, adding that the force does not shield officers who violate the law.
In related news, an old video of petitions against ASP Nuhu has resurfaced, showing a member of the House of Representatives, Honourable Nnamdi Ezechi, speaking about how ASP Nuhu has been accused of intimidating and brutalising citizens in Delta State.
