Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the alleged extrajudicial killing of a 28-year-old man, Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State, describing the incident as a serious breach of the rule of law.
Ogidi was reportedly shot dead on April 26 during a police operation involving an officer identified as ASP Nuhu Usman, sparking public concern and calls for justice.
Reacting in a statement shared on his official X handle on Wednesday, April 29, Obi criticised the killing and stressed that no individual should be deprived of life without due legal process.
“The extrajudicial killing of a young Nigerian in Effurun, Delta State, by a police officer, Mr. Mene Ogidi, is not only barbaric but also a grave violation of the rule of law,” he said.
He noted that modern societies have evolved beyond arbitrary actions that disregard human life, emphasising that due process remains a cornerstone of justice.
“Over time, human society has moved away from an era when lives could be taken without consequence.
“Through the evolution of civilisation, a fundamental principle has emerged: no one should be punished or deprived of life without due process and a fair determination of guilt,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor warned that such incidents have far-reaching consequences, especially in a country already grappling with insecurity and widespread violence.
“Such acts inflict unimaginable trauma on the bereaved family and deepen public anxiety in an already distressed society.
READ ALSO: Amnesty Demands Public Trial Over Alleged Police Killing In Delta
“Nigerians are already traumatised by recurring reports of brutal killings by terror organisations across the country, and incidents of this nature – especially when involving state actors – only worsen that psychological burden and erode public confidence in safety and security,” he said.
While acknowledging the response of the police authorities, Obi urged them to ensure that justice is served transparently.
“In light of this, while the law must take its full course, I commend the prompt response of the police authorities so far and express confidence that they will pursue this matter to its logical conclusion. Such responsiveness is necessary to reassure the public that justice will not be compromised,” he said.
He also called for sustained accountability across security agencies, stressing the importance of proper recruitment standards.
“I therefore urge the police and all security agencies to sustain this approach by acting with transparency and accountability.
“Furthermore, recruitment processes must be more rigorous, ensuring that only individuals of sound judgment and the right frame of mind are entrusted with firearms,” Obi added.
He concluded by linking justice and public trust to national progress.
“In the final analysis, these measures can restore public trust and uphold justice – both of which are indispensable to building a new Nigeria that is possible,” he concluded.