Former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has stated that the extrajudicial killing of a young Nigerian, Mr. Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State, by a police officer, was not only barbaric but also a grave violation of the rule of law.
In a post on his X handle on Wednesday, Obi said the authorities concerned must ensure that the law takes its full course.
He also submitted that recruitment processes into the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) must be more rigorous, ensuring that only individuals of sound judgment and the right frame of mind are entrusted with firearms.
The Politician cum businessman said over time, human society has moved away from an era when lives could be taken without consequence. Noting that “through the evolution of civilisation, a fundamental principle has emerged: no one should be punished or deprived of life without due process and a fair determination of guilt.”
According to him, such acts inflict unimaginable trauma on the bereaved family and deepen public anxiety in an already distressed society.
“Nigerians are already traumatised by recurring reports of brutal killings by terror organisations across the country, and incidents of this nature – especially when involving state actors – only worsen that psychological burden and erode public confidence in safety and security,” he added.
While commending the prompt response of the police authorities so far, Obi expressed confidence that they would pursue the matter to its logical conclusion. Adding that such responsiveness was necessary to reassure the public that justice would not be compromised.
“I therefore urge the police and all security agencies to sustain this approach by acting with transparency and accountability.
“In the final analysis, these measures can restore public trust and uphold justice – both of which are indispensable to building a new Nigeria that is possible,” he said.
