“It’s not only barbaric, but grave violation of rule of law” — Peter Obi reacts as police officer kills man in Delta
A former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the alleged extrajudicial killing of a young Nigerian in Effurun, Delta State, by a police officer identified as Mr. Mene Ogidi.
He described the incident as a serious abuse of power and a violation of the rule of law.
Obi stated that the act has renewed concerns about police conduct and accountability in Nigeria.
He also stressed that no life should be taken without due legal process or a fair hearing under the law.
Obi condemns killing and urges accountability
In a detailed reaction, Obi said the development reflects a breakdown of justice and the need for stronger safeguards within security institutions.
He said:
“Extrajudicial Killing in Effurun
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.
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.
Such acts inflict unimaginable trauma on the bereaved family and deepen public anxiety in an already distressed society.
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.
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. 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.
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. -PO.”
Call for reforms in security agencies
Obi further urged security agencies to strengthen recruitment standards and ensure proper screening of personnel before they are armed.
He argued that such reforms are necessary to prevent future abuses and rebuild public trust in law enforcement institutions.
