A strong response has been issued by the Inspector-General of Police following the fatal shooting of a civilian in Delta State.
The incident, which led to the death of Mene Ogidi, has now triggered immediate disciplinary actions within the Nigeria Police Force.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, IGP Rilwan Olutunji Disu condemned the actions of the officers involved.
“The officer at the centre of the incident, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nuhu Usman, acted in gross violation of established procedures and Force Order 237 governing the use of firearms.
“Let me be clear: this action was criminal, it was unprofessional, and it has no place in the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.
Moreover, the IGP disclosed that all officers linked to the case were immediately transferred to Force Headquarters.
Meanwhile, investigations were conducted by the Force Disciplinary Committee and the Orderly Room Tribunal.
“The Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC), alongside the Orderly Room Tribunal, subsequently investigated the matter, with the proceedings confirming violations of operational procedures and unlawful conduct,” he stated.
Furthermore, the panels recommended strict sanctions against the officers involved. According to the IGP, dismissal and criminal prosecution have been proposed.
“Both the FDC and the tribunal recommended the dismissal of ASP Nuhu Usman and other implicated officers from the Force,
“Upon dismissal, all officers will be handed over to the appropriate judicial authorities to face criminal charges for unlawful homicide,” he added.
In addition, the recommendations have been forwarded to the Police Service Commission for final approval.
However, the IGP stressed that the actions of the officers were personal and not reflective of the institution.
“The NPF is an institution built on the rule of law, and we have zero tolerance for lawlessness within our ranks. No uniform is a license to kill,” he said.
Meanwhile, condolences were extended to the family of the deceased.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community of the late Mene Ogidi. A life has been lost, and no statement can fill that void. But I give you my word: justice will not only be done, but it will also be seen to be done,” he stated.
Therefore, authorities have urged the public to remain calm as the legal process continues.
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