“No badge should become a license to kill,” says Commission boss
By A1 News Desk | Abuja, Nigeria | April 30, 2026
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has strongly condemned the alleged extrajudicial killing of a 28-year-old man, Mene Ogidi, by a police officer in Delta State, describing the incident as a grave violation of human rights and the rule of law.
The Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (OFR, SAN), in a statement issued in Abuja, denounced the killing, which reportedly occurred on April 26, 2026, in Efurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
Ojukwu described the incident as “deeply disturbing” and a direct affront to human dignity, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and established legal norms.
He stressed that no citizen should lose their life at the hands of law enforcement agents tasked with protecting them, reiterating that the sanctity of life must remain paramount.
“The reported action of the officer involved is condemnable, unacceptable, and completely inconsistent with the principles of justice and a civilized society,” he stated.
Rising Concerns Over Police Use of Force
The NHRC boss expressed concern over recurring cases of excessive force by security operatives, warning that such incidents erode public trust in law enforcement institutions.
He called on the Nigeria Police Force to take urgent and decisive measures to curb misconduct, including instituting periodic mental and psychological evaluations for officers, particularly those assigned to special duties.
Call for Immediate Accountability
Ojukwu urged the police authorities to take swift disciplinary action against the officer allegedly involved, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nuhu Usman, in line with existing laws and regulations.
He further demanded the immediate arrest of the officer, a transparent investigation, dismissal from service, and prosecution in accordance with the law.
Push for Police Reform and Justice for Victim
The Commission also reiterated the need for full implementation of recommendations from its Panel on Police Brutality, noting that reform remains critical to preventing future violations.
Ojukwu called for adequate compensation for the victim’s family, stressing that justice must not only be done but be seen to be done.
“Justice delayed only deepens public distrust in state institutions and undermines confidence in law enforcement,” he warned.
The NHRC assured that it will closely monitor the case and continue to advocate for accountability, justice, and the protection of fundamental human rights across Nigeria.
“Nigeria must never normalize brutality. Justice must speak louder than silence,” Ojukwu concluded.
![Nigerian military prepares to cordon the area where a man was killed by suspected rebel fighters during an attack around the Polo area of Maiduguri, Nigeria, in 2019 [File: Afolabi Sotunde/Reuters]](https://a1news.com.ng/wp/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nigeria-military-on-patrol.webp)
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