Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has voiced strong condemnation following the tragic death of 28-year-old Mine Ogidi, who was allegedly killed by a police officer attached to the Effurun Area Command. The Governor’s reaction comes on the heels of the April 26 incident, which sparked intense public debate after distressing reports and video footage began circulating across social media platforms.
In a statement released on Thursday through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor described the act as barbaric and a complete disregard for the law and the sanctity of human life. While sending his deepest sympathies to the victim’s family in Ujevwu, Udu Local Government Area, Oborevwori maintained that no Nigerian should ever be subjected to such unlawful treatment by those sworn to protect them.
The Governor praised the Nigeria Police Force for their swift response in initiating disciplinary actions, which reportedly include the dismissal and intended prosecution of the officers involved. He noted that such transparency is vital for ensuring accountability and rebuilding the trust between the public and law enforcement agencies.
Governor Oborevwori has called for a comprehensive investigation to ensure that every individual implicated in the matter faces the full weight of the law. He promised the grieving family that the state government would stand by them throughout the legal process, ensuring the case reaches a just conclusion. He also appealed to the residents of Delta State to keep the peace and remain law-abiding while the authorities handle the situation.
Adding weight to the calls for justice, prominent human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Kunle Edun, has raised serious concerns regarding the circumstances of the killing. Edun, who is providing free legal services to the bereaved family, described the incident as highly suspicious and questioned whether the officer involved acted independently or under specific orders.
The senior lawyer pointed out that even in cases where there are allegations of unlawful firearm possession, lethal force is never a justifiable first resort, as every citizen is entitled to due process. It is particularly disturbing, Edun noted, that this incident reportedly took place within a police facility—a location that should serve as a sanctuary for those seeking protection.
As it stands, the legal team is actively engaging with the police command in Delta State to ensure the investigation remains transparent. Edun expressed confidence that the matter would be handled with the seriousness it deserves, vowing that his team will remain relentless in the pursuit of justice for the late Mine Ogidi.
