Inspector-General of Police, IGP Tunji Disu, has approved the dismissal and prosecution of Killer-cop Nuhu Usman (ASP) and other officers involved in the extra-judicial killing of Mene Ogidi in Effurun, Delta State, on Sunday.
Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), DCP Anthony Okon Placid, made the disclosure in a press release, on Wednesday.
The trigger-happy police officer, ASP Nuhu Usman, was seen in a video which has since gone viral, shooting to death in the public the deceased who, in chains, pleaded that his life be spared.
The slain 28-year-old Mene Ogidi told the police officers present at the scene of the extra-judicial killing that he would take them to the house of the person who sent him on the errand, to further prove his innocence.
However, all his plea for mercy was ignored by ASP Usman who pumped hot leads into the body of the young man, even as his accomplices watched him taking life out Mene Ogidi.
The action of the killer-cop drew the anger of Nigerians across the country who alleged that the extra-judicial killing of the deceased was an act by ASP Usman to cover up a crime.
The killer-cop and trigger-happy police officer was subsequently arrested, along with his colleagues, by the Delta State Police Command and transferred to Abuja for interrogation and prosecution.
The Nigeria Police Force, on Wednesday, gave an update on the disciplinary actions taken against the killer-cop and his accomplices following the fatal shooting incident which resulted in the death of Mene Ogidi.
“Sequel to the earlier directive of IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, all officers connected to the incident were immediately withdrawn from the Delta State Command and transferred to Force Headquarters, Abuja, where they were subjected to expedited disciplinary proceedings,” it was stated in the release.
The Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC), alongside other internal disciplinary processes, concluding its review, unequivocally established that the principal officer, ASP Nuhu Usman, “acted in gross violation of Force Order 237 and other extant regulations governing the use of firearms.
“His actions were unlawful, unprofessional, and a clear betrayal of the oath to protect life and uphold the law.
“Consequently, the FDC has recommended the immediate dismissal of ASP Nuhu Usman and other officers found culpable.
“The Inspector-General of Police has approved the recommendations and forwarded same to the Police Service Commission (PSC) for ratification in line with due process,” it was stated.
The police higher authority also stated that, upon completion of the administrative procedures, Usman and the other affected officers will be handed over to the appropriate judicial authorities for prosecution for their roles in the extrajudicial shooting.
“The Inspector-General of Police reiterates, in the strongest terms, that the Nigeria Police Force maintains a zero-tolerance stance on extra-judicial actions and abuse of power.
“No uniform confers the right to take life outside the provisions of the law. Any officer who violates this fundamental principle will face the full weight of disciplinary and legal consequences,” it was added.
IGP Disu, while extending solemn condolences to the family of the slain Mene Ogidi, acknowledged the pain and loss suffered and assured the family that the tragic incident will not be treated lightly.
“The Force is fully committed to ensuring that justice is not only served but seen to be served, in a manner that reinforces public confidence and institutional accountability.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and law-abiding, as the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its commitment to discipline, professionalism, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all citizens, while ensuring accountability at all levels,” it was added in the release.
