IGP orders dismissal, prosecution of officers over Delta killing

THE Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, has approved the dismissal and prosecution of an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Nuhu Usman, alongside other officers implicated in the killing of a suspect in Efunrun, Delta State.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, said the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC), after concluding its investigation and internal review processes, found that the officer acted in clear breach of Force Order 237 and other rules guiding the use of firearms.

Placid stated that the committee recommended the immediate dismissal of Usman and other culpable officers, a decision the IGP has endorsed and forwarded to the Police Service Commission (PSC) for ratification in line with due process.

Backstory

The development follows a viral video that surfaced on Tuesday, showing the fatal shooting of a suspect who had already been restrained by officers attached to the Delta police command.

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In the widely circulated clip, the victim is seen seated on the ground with his hands tied behind his back before being shot.

The footage triggered widespread outrage, with many Nigerians demanding justice for the victim and accountability for the officers involved.

Earlier, spokesperson of the Delta Police Command, Bright Edafe, had confirmed that Usman had been arrested and moved to the force headquarters in Abuja to face disciplinary proceedings.

Reaffirming the force’s position, the police spokesperson stressed that the Nigeria Police Force has zero tolerance for extrajudicial killings and abuse of authority.

“No uniform gives any officer the right to take life outside the law. Any violation of this principle will attract strict disciplinary and legal action,” the statement noted.

The IGP also extended condolences to the family of the deceased, Mr Mene Ogidi, acknowledging their loss and assuring them that the matter will be treated with seriousness.

He further emphasised the force’s commitment to accountability, stating that justice will not only be done but will be seen to be done to restore public trust.

Members of the public were urged to remain calm and law-abiding, as the police reiterated their dedication to professionalism, discipline, and the protection of citizens’ rights.