Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly condemned the killing of a young Nigerian, Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State, describing the incident as a grave breach of justice and human rights.
Reacting via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Wednesday, Obi said the incident represents a dangerous disregard for the rule of law and due process.
“The extrajudicial killing of a young Nigerian Mr. Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State, by a police officer, is not only barbaric but also a grave violation of the rule of law.”
He stressed that modern societies have evolved beyond arbitrary actions where lives are taken without accountability, noting that due process must remain central to justice systems.
“Over time, human society has moved away from an era when lives could be taken without consequence. 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.”
Obi warned that such incidents deepen public fear and compound the trauma already faced by Nigerians amid ongoing insecurity across the country.
“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.”
While calling for justice, the former Anambra State governor acknowledged the initial response of the police authorities, urging them to follow through with transparency and accountability.
“In light of this, while the law must take its full course, I commend the prompt response of the police authorities so far and express confidence that they will pursue this matter to its logical conclusion. Such responsiveness is necessary to reassure the public that justice will not be compromised.”
He further called for systemic reforms, particularly in recruitment within security agencies, to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“I therefore urge the police and all security agencies to sustain this approach by acting with transparency and accountability. Furthermore, recruitment processes must be more rigorous, ensuring that only individuals of sound judgment and the right frame of mind are entrusted with firearms.”
Obi concluded by linking justice and public trust to the broader vision of national renewal.
“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.”