The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the alleged extrajudicial killing of a suspect by a police officer in Delta State, describing the act as unconstitutional and a serious threat to public trust in law enforcement.

In a statement on Wednesday signed by NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), the association said it was disturbed by a viral video of the incident and the police confirmation that the officer involved had been arrested for murder.

The NBA described the act as an abuse of power and a violation of the right to life and fair hearing guaranteed under the Constitution.

“The Nigerian Bar Association is disturbed by the viral video showing the extrajudicial killing of a suspect by police officers in Delta State,” the statement read.\

It added that no law enforcement officer has the authority to act as “prosecutor, judge, and executioner.”

The association stressed that the Constitution presumes every suspect innocent until proven guilty by a competent court, warning that unchecked abuses could deepen a culture of impunity.

While acknowledging that the officer involved had been arrested, the NBA insisted that accountability must extend beyond a single individual.

It noted that other officers present during the incident may have played a role and should also be investigated and prosecuted if found culpable.

“The viral video clearly shows that other policemen aided or were involved in this heinous act,” it said.

The NBA also called for swift and transparent prosecution, warning that any attempt to shield those involved would further erode public confidence in the police.
 

It directed its Human Rights Committees in Warri, Effurun, and Udu to closely monitor the case to ensure justice is served.
 

The incident reportedly involved 28-year-old Mene Ogidi, who was shot during a police operation in Effurun on April 26, 2026.

According to reports, the officer involved, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, allegedly discharged his weapon contrary to operational guidelines, leading to the suspect’s death.

The Delta State Police Command has since confirmed the arrest and transfer of the officer to Abuja for further investigation and disciplinary action.

The Nigerian Police Force also stated that it would not tolerate extrajudicial conduct and promised that due process would be followed.

The NBA said the case underscores the urgent need for continued police reforms, particularly in areas relating to accountability and use of force.