The Nigeria Police Force has forwarded the case file on the shooting of 28-year-old Mene Ogidi in Effurun, Delta State, to the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation for prosecution.
This development follows the confirmation of the dismissal of officers implicated in the incident by the Police Service Commission.
Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Sunday, describing the move as a major step toward ensuring justice.
“The case file has been formally forwarded to the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation for vetting and prosecution. The Force will cooperate fully with the AGF’s office to ensure that this matter is prosecuted to its logical conclusion before a court of competent jurisdiction,” he said.
Placid confirmed that the Police Service Commission had reviewed and ratified the recommendation for the dismissal of ASP Nuhu and three other officers found culpable in the unlawful killing, adding that their dismissal takes immediate effect.
He stated that the officers had been arrested and are currently in custody, noting that internal disciplinary procedures have been concluded.
“Following the conclusion of investigations, ASP Nuhu and three other members of his team have been arrested and are currently in custody. The Force wishes to state clearly and without ambiguity that all indicted officers have been recommended for dismissal from the Nigeria Police Force. The Police Service Commission has reviewed and ratified this recommendation,” he added.
According to Placid, investigations into the April 26 incident revealed that the officers’ actions amounted to professional misconduct, abuse of office, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.
He explained that the incident began after the deceased received a parcel from Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, which he attempted to waybill to Sapele. The parcel was later discovered to contain a fabricated Beretta pistol and four rounds of 9mm ammunition, leading to a citizen’s arrest before police intervention.
However, upon arrival, ASP Nuhu, who led the responding team, allegedly shot the already apprehended and unarmed suspect, in violation of established rules of engagement.
“The Force wishes to be unequivocal: no criminal suspicion, however grave, justifies extrajudicial action. Every suspect is entitled to due process under the law,” Placid said.
He added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other individuals linked to the case, including the driver who delivered the parcel and two vigilante members.
Reaffirming the Force’s commitment to accountability, the police spokesperson assured the public and the victim’s family that justice would be served.
“The Nigeria Police Force does not shield officers who violate the law. No rank or position will place any officer above accountability,” he said.
He also urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing investigations as the legal process continues.
Elijah Adeyemi
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