Tunji Disu, the inspector-general of police (IGP), has approved the recommendation of the force disciplinary committee (FDC) for the dismissal and prosecution of Nuhu Usman, an assistant superintendent of police (ASP), and other officers over the killing of a suspect in Efunrun, Delta state.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Anthony Placid, the force public relations officer, said the force disciplinary FDC, alongside other internal disciplinary processes, has concluded its review of the incident and established that the police officer ” acted in gross violation of Force Order 237 and other extant regulations governing the use of firearms.”
“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 for ratification in line with due process,” the statement reads.
Background
On Tuesday, a trending video on social media showed the shooting of the suspect, who had been restrained by a police officer attached to the Delta police command.
In the less-than-two-minute video, the male suspect is seen sitting on the ground with his hands tied behind his back with a rope.
The video has since generated widespread public outrage, with calls for the prosecution of the officer involved and justice for the victim.
In a statement on Tuesday, Bright Edafe, police spokesperson in Delta state, said the officer, identified as Usman Nuhu, an assistant superintendent of police (ASP), has been arrested and transferred to the force headquarters in Abuja for disciplinary proceedings.
Officers To Be Prosecuted
According to the force spokesperson, the affected officers will be handed over to the appropriate judicial authorities for prosecution for their roles in the extrajudicial shooting upon completion of the administrative procedures.
“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,” he said.
“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.
“The IGP extends his deepest and most solemn condolences to the family of the deceased, Mr Mene Ogidi.
“He acknowledges the pain and loss suffered and assures the family that this 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.”
