“Findings established unequivocally 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.
The Police on Wednesday announced the dismissal of ASP Nuhu Usman who executed an unarmed suspect in Efurun, Delta state on Tuesday.
Dismissed along with Usman were other personnel who were with Usman during their operation that led to the arrest and on-the-spot killing of Mr. Mene Ogidi, said to be an upcoming singer over alleged possession of a gun.
NPO Reports that Usman opened fire on Ogidi before onlookers after he had been arrested, handcuffed and being interrogated.
The late suspect was said to be in the process of volunteering information how he came by the gun when Usman, in company with his colleagues shot him in the head, killing him on the spot.
Ogidi’s body was therefore thrown inside the police van and driven away from the spot.
The incident has drawn the ire of many Nigerians who expressed dismay at the killing.
A statement released by the Police Wednesday evening said Usman and others have been dismissed while they are to be handed over to relevant authorities for prosecution.
“The Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC), alongside other internal disciplinary processes, has concluded its review.
“Findings established unequivocally 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 for ratification in line with due process. Upon completion of the administrative procedures, the affected officers will be handed over to the appropriate judicial authorities for prosecution for their roles in the extrajudicial shooting.” the police stated.
The force statement signed its spokesman, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, quoted the Inspector-General of Police as reiterating that it maintains a zero-tolerance stance on extra-judicial actions and abuse of power.
It went further, “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 statement also said he IGP extended his condolences to the family of the deceased.
“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.”