ASP Nuhu: Viral Delta Police Shooting Raises Questions Over Officer’s Past

ASP Nuhu: Viral Delta Police Shooting Raises Questions Over Officer’s Past

The fatal shooting of 28-year-old Mene Ogidi by a police officer in Effurun, Delta State, has continued to generate outrage across Nigeria, with fresh scrutiny now focused on the operational history and conduct of the officer identified as ASP Usman Nuhu.

The controversy began after a disturbing viral video surfaced online showing Ogidi seated on the ground with his hands tied behind his back while pleading for his life before he was shot at close range during a police operation along the Warri–Sapele Expressway.

In the footage, the victim repeatedly begged the officers not to kill him, insisting he had been misled by a friend and offering to cooperate with investigators.

“Officers, abeg, I go tell you everything. Na my friend deceive me. E dey Sapele. I go carry you go the place,” Ogidi was heard saying moments before the shooting.

Despite the suspect being restrained and posing no visible threat, an officer later identified as ASP Usman Nuhu allegedly cocked his rifle and fired directly at him. The suspect immediately collapsed as shocked residents and passers-by watched the scene unfold.

Following public outrage triggered by the video, the Delta State Police Command confirmed that the officer involved was ASP Usman Nuhu, attached to the Effurun Area Command.

Police spokesperson Bright Edafe stated that Ogidi had allegedly been arrested during an operation involving suspected illegal possession and transportation of a Beretta pistol and ammunition.

However, the command admitted that the shooting violated Force Order 237 and the Standard Operating Procedures of the Nigeria Police Force, which regulate the use of firearms during operations.

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The police subsequently arrested ASP Nuhu, queried him internally, and transferred him to Force Headquarters in Abuja for disciplinary proceedings and possible prosecution.

As the case gained national attention, reports and eyewitness accounts also began emerging about the officer’s alleged operational history.

Several local reports claimed ASP Nuhu was known in parts of the Niger Delta by the nickname “Ogbegbe,” loosely translated as “Gun-shooter,” allegedly due to his aggressive operational style and frequent use of force.

Some residents and online commentators further alleged that he had previously served in tactical policing units, including the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), and may have faced complaints over excessive force in earlier postings.

Unverified reports also suggested that the officer had been transferred from previous commands following allegations of misconduct. However, no official police records confirming prior disciplinary action against him have been publicly released.

The growing revelations have intensified public criticism, with many Nigerians questioning how an officer accused of repeated aggressive conduct remained in active service.

Meanwhile, rights groups and civil society organisations have called for a broader investigation into all officers present during the incident, arguing that accountability should not stop with the officer who pulled the trigger.

Witnesses alleged that other officers were present during the operation and failed to intervene despite the suspect already being restrained.

The Delta State Police Command has maintained that investigations are ongoing and assured the public that justice will be served.

Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, condemned the incident and extended condolences to the family of the deceased, insisting that the command remains committed to transparency and accountability.

The killing of Mene Ogidi has once again reignited national conversations around police brutality in Nigeria, use of excessive force, and the need for deeper reforms within the Nigeria Police Force.

Human rights advocates have continued to demand stricter enforcement of operational guidelines, independent oversight, and tougher sanctions against officers involved in unlawful killings.

As disciplinary proceedings continue at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, many Nigerians say the outcome of the case will test the sincerity of ongoing promises of police reform and accountability.

ASP Nuhu: Viral Delta Police Shooting Raises Questions Over Officer’s Past