Delta protesters demand justice for slain musician as family, NBA decry police action

Angry protesters on Wednesday besieged the Ekpan Police Station in Effurun, Delta State, demanding justice for Oghenemine Ogidi, the 28-year-old musician allegedly shot dead by a police officer.

The demonstrators condemned the killing and called for the immediate prosecution of all officers linked to the incident, which has sparked outrage following the circulation of a disturbing viral video.

The protest comes amid growing grief within the victim’s family, particularly from his mother, who says the latest tragedy mirrors a painful past.

During a condolence visit captured in a video seen online, the bereaved woman broke down in tears as she narrated how Ogidi, also known as OG Millan, was the second of her sons to die in alleged encounters with the police. The visit was led by activist Harrison Gwamnishu.

“I have lost two children to the police,” she said. “They killed one in 2022, and now they have taken another one from me. This pain is too much.”

The killing has drawn widespread criticism, with fresh allegations emerging against Nuhu Usman, the Assistant Superintendent of Police currently in custody over the shooting.

According to police authorities, the victim – identified in official records as Mene Ogidi – was arrested during an operation in Effurun after intelligence suggested he was in possession of a firearm. The police claimed a Beretta pistol and ammunition were recovered.

However, the credibility of that account has been questioned following the emergence of a video appearing to show the suspect subdued and pleading for his life before being shot.

Reacting to the development, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) strongly condemned the killing, describing it as a grave violation of constitutional rights.

In a statement, NBA President Afam Osigwe said the incident represents a dangerous abuse of power and undermines the rule of law.

“No law enforcement officer has the authority to act as judge and executioner,” he said, warning that such actions erode public trust and violate the principle that every suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The NBA further stressed that accountability must go beyond the officer who pulled the trigger, noting that others present at the scene should also be investigated if found complicit.

“The net of justice must cover all those who played a role, whether directly or indirectly,” the association said.

It also directed its Human Rights Committees in Warri, Effurun and Udu to closely follow the case to ensure transparency and proper prosecution.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest and transfer of the officer to Abuja for further investigation, while the Nigeria Police Force reiterated its stance against extrajudicial killings and pledged that due process will be observed.

The April 26 incident has since reignited nationwide concerns over police conduct and intensified calls for reforms, particularly regarding the use of force and respect for human rights.