The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the extrajudicial killing of a suspect, Mene Ogidi, by police officers in Delta state, describing the act as unlawful and a violation of constitutional rights.
In a statement on Tuesday, Afam Osigwe, president of the NBA, said the incident reflects a troubling pattern of abuse by law enforcement agents.
“No officer of the law, regardless of rank or circumstance, has the right to act as prosecutor, judge, and executioner,” he said.
The NBA said the killing undermines the rule of law and the constitutional presumption of innocence.
It added that the act portrays the Nigeria Police Force in a negative light and reinforces concerns about violations of the rights of suspects.
“The constitution is clear that every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction,” the statement said.
The association said the incident, which was captured in a viral video, shows a “grave violation” of the right to life and dignity.
It described the killing as an “arbitrary and misguided show of power” that must not be tolerated in a democratic society.
Furthermore, the NBA called for the prosecution of all officers involved in the incident.
It said accountability must extend beyond the principal officer to others who aided or abetted the act.
“Any attempt to shield, delay, or dilute accountability will further erode public confidence in law enforcement institutions,” the statement said.
The NBA urged authorities to ensure that the prosecution is conducted with transparency and urgency.
It also directed its human rights committees in Delta state to monitor the case and ensure justice is served.
The association expressed condolences to the family of the deceased, Ogidi, and called for broader police reforms.
BACKGROUND
The Nigeria Police Force had earlier announced disciplinary actions over the incident, which occurred on April 26 in Effurun, Delta state.
In a statement, the police said ASP Nuhu Usman, the principal officer involved, acted in violation of operational guidelines governing the use of firearms.
The force disciplinary committee recommended his dismissal alongside other culpable officers, a decision approved by the inspector-general of police and forwarded to the police service commission for ratification.
The police said the officers will be handed over for prosecution after administrative procedures are concluded.
The force also reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on extrajudicial killings and assured the public that justice will be served.
