The Delta state police command says Usman Nuhu, an assistant superintendent of police (ASP), has been arrested for killing a 28-year-old suspect in Effurun, Delta state, on Sunday.
Earlier on Tuesday, a trending video on social media showed the shooting of the suspect, who had been restrained by a police officer attached to the Delta police command.
In the less-than-two-minute video, the suspect is seen sitting on the ground with his hands tied behind his back with a rope and pleading for his life before being shot by a police officer in mufti.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Bright Edafe, police spokesperson in Delta, said the officer has been transferred to the force headquarters in Abuja for disciplinary proceedings.
Anthony Placid, the force public relations officer, who also confirmed the development, said the suspect, identified as Mene Ogidi, was killed after being apprehended while attempting to waybill a parcel allegedly containing a pistol loaded with four rounds of ammunition.
“Preliminary reports indicate that operatives attached to the Effurun Area Command responded to credible information from Benin Motor Park along the Warri–Sapele Expressway regarding a suspect apprehended by members of a transport union while attempting to waybill a parcel containing a Beretta pistol with four rounds of ammunition,” Placid said.
“While efforts were being made to take the suspect into lawful custody, the team leader, ASP Nuhu Usman, discharged his firearm in clear violation of extant regulations, resulting in the death of the suspect.”
Placid added that the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has ordered the immediate transfer of the officer and his team to Abuja, where they will face the force disciplinary committee for summary disciplinary measures and possible prosecution.
“The Inspector-General of Police extends his condolences to the family of the deceased and assures them that justice will be served in accordance with the law,” he added.
“He further urges members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding as the disciplinary and legal processes take their course.
“The Nigeria Police Force maintains a zero-tolerance stance on extra-judicial actions, abuse of authority, and any conduct that undermines public trust.”
