ABUJA, Nigeria (FN), Inspector‑General of Police Rilwan Olutunji Disu has ordered immediate disciplinary action against officers of the Nigeria Police Force implicated in the fatal shooting of a civilian, Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State.
Disu announced the directive during a press briefing at Force Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, stressing that the Force would not tolerate misconduct or excessive use of force. He said the officers involved would face internal disciplinary measures and that the case would be thoroughly investigated to ensure accountability.
The shooting, which occurred earlier this week, sparked outrage in Effurun, where residents demanded justice and greater oversight of police operations. Civil society groups have also called for transparency in the disciplinary process and urged the police to provide support to Ogidi’s family.
This incident adds to a series of controversial police shootings in Nigeria that have drawn public criticism in recent years. In 2020, the #EndSARS protests highlighted widespread concerns about police brutality and extrajudicial killings, leading to promises of reform. More recently, in 2024, officers in Lagos were dismissed after a fatal shooting of a commuter at a checkpoint, while in 2025, police in Rivers State faced disciplinary hearings following the death of a motorcyclist during a stop‑and‑search operation.
Human rights advocates say the Effurun case underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms, including stricter enforcement of rules of engagement, improved training, and stronger accountability mechanisms. “Every life lost to reckless policing erodes public trust in law enforcement,” one rights lawyer noted, adding that disciplinary action must be swift and transparent to restore confidence.
As investigations proceed, the Inspector‑General reiterated his commitment to professional standards and human rights compliance within the police service, promising that justice would be pursued both for the victim and the community.
