Avocats Sans Frontières France has condemned the killing of a 28-year-old suspect, Mene Ogidi, in Delta State, describing it as an extrajudicial act and calling for the prosecution of the police officer involved.
The group said Ogidi was killed on 26 April in Effurun by a police officer identified as ASP Nuhu Usman, attached to the Area Command.
In a statement issued in Abuja, ASF France said it welcomed reports that the Nigeria Police Force had arrested the officer, but stressed that arrest alone was not sufficient. “Arrest is merely the first step toward the accountability required to satisfy the demands of justice,” the group said.
ASF France described the killing as a violation of constitutional protections, including the right to life and the presumption of innocence, noting that suspects must be tried in court.
The organisation also cited police regulations governing the use of force, saying firearms should only be used where there is an imminent threat to life.
According to the statement, video evidence circulating online suggested the victim had been restrained at the time of the incident.
ASF France said the killing also breached international human rights obligations, including provisions under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The group called on Nigerian authorities to conduct an independent investigation, prosecute those responsible, and provide support to the victim’s family.
It added that it would continue to monitor developments to ensure accountability.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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