Public anger has intensified following the circulation of a viral video showing a police officer in Delta State allegedly shooting a restrained suspect at close range.
The incident occurred on Sunday in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area. In the nearly two-minute footage, the victim, identified as 28-year-old Mene Ogidi, is seen seated on the ground with his hands tied behind his back. He repeatedly pleads with officers not to shoot him, speaking in Pidgin English and offering to cooperate.
“Officers, abeg, I go tell you everything. Na my friend deceive me. E dey Sapele. I go carry you go the place,” Ogidi said in the video.
Moments later, an officer dressed in plain clothes is seen cocking his rifle and firing at close range. Ogidi slumps to the ground as onlookers watch in shock. The officers subsequently moved his body into a Toyota Sienna vehicle bearing markings of the Effurun Area Command.
Authorities later alleged that Ogidi was in possession of a pistol at the time of his arrest.
Police Response
The Nigeria Police Force, Delta State Command, confirmed the incident and announced the arrest of the officer involved, identified as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nuhu Usman.
Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, stated that operatives from the Effurun Area Command had acted on intelligence regarding a suspect attempting to waybill a parcel containing a Beretta pistol loaded with four rounds of ammunition.
Edafe said the command has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, assuring the public that appropriate disciplinary measures will follow based on the findings.
Public Reaction
The video has sparked widespread condemnation across social media platforms, with many Nigerians calling for justice and accountability. Civil society groups and rights advocates have also demanded a transparent investigation, raising concerns over alleged extrajudicial killings and abuse of power by security personnel.
As investigations continue, the incident has renewed calls for police reform and stricter adherence to rules of engagement in handling suspects.
