Orette Condemns Killing of Mene Ogidi, Urges Police Reform
By Yahaya Idris
Delta South senatorial candidate, Dr. Austin Orette, on Thursday condemned the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Mene Ogidi in Delta State, calling for urgent reforms in the Nigeria Police Force and stricter recruitment standards.
In a statement, Orette urged the Police Service Commission (PSC) to ensure that only individuals of sound character are recruited into the force, warning that the inclusion of unfit personnel poses a serious threat to society.
“It is an invitation to barbarism when those charged with enforcing the law become its chief violators,” he said.
He described ASP Nuhu Usman, the officer allegedly involved in the incident, as exhibiting a “depraved mindset,” expressing shock over the reported killing of a handcuffed civilian in public.
Orette called for a comprehensive investigation into the officer’s past conduct, suggesting that the incident may not be isolated.
“His career must be thoroughly reviewed, and if found culpable, he should face the full weight of the law,” he stated.
The senatorial hopeful also urged Nigerians to seek legal redress against the Nigeria Police Force, stressing the need for accountability to deter future abuses.
He further called for adequate compensation for the family of the deceased, noting that justice must extend beyond prosecution to include support for victims.
Orette challenged the police hierarchy, including the PSC and the Inspector-General of Police, to demonstrate a renewed commitment to professionalism and democratic principles.
“As Nigeria’s democracy continues to evolve, the police must urgently shed anti-democratic practices and uphold the rule of law,” he added.
