Former governor of Anambra state, Peter Obi has condemned the extrajudicial killing of a young man in Effurun, Delta state, by a police officer.
Obi, a presidential aspirant under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), described the incident as barbaric and a violation of the rule of law.
“The extrajudicial killing of a young Nigerian in Effurun, Delta State, by a police officer… is not only barbaric but also a grave violation of the rule of law,” he said.
He said no individual should be deprived of life without due process and a fair determination of guilt, adding that such incidents worsen public anxiety and erode public confidence in security institutions.
“Nigerians are already traumatised by recurring reports of brutal killings… and incidents of this nature… only worsen that psychological burden and erode public confidence in safety and security,” he said.
Obi, however, commended the response of the police authorities and urged them to ensure justice is served.
“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,” he said.
Obi called on security agencies to act with transparency and accountability, while advocating for stricter recruitment processes within the police.
“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.
“These measures can restore public trust and uphold justice — both of which are indispensable to building a new Nigeria that is possible,” he said.