By Egufe Yafugborhi

ASABA — Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has condemned the alleged extrajudicial killing of 28-year-old Mine Ogidi, reportedly involving a police officer attached to the Effurun Area Command.

The governor spoke on Thursday amid public reactions to the April 26 incident, which drew widespread attention after reports and video footage surfaced days later.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Oborevwori described the incident as “barbaric, unlawful, and a grave violation of the sanctity of human life.” He extended condolences to the victim’s family in Ujevwu, Udu Local Government Area, stressing that no citizen should be subjected to such treatment.

The statement noted that the governor commended the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for initiating disciplinary നടപടures, including the reported dismissal and planned prosecution of officers found culpable. He described the action as a step toward accountability and restoring public confidence.

Oborevwori called for a thorough investigation into all those implicated, emphasizing that justice must be both done and seen to be done. He assured the bereaved family of the state government’s support and pledged that the case would be followed through to its logical conclusion.

He also urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, reiterating his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and upholding the rule of law.

Meanwhile, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Kunle Edun, described the killing as suspicious, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Edun, who said he is offering pro bono legal services to the victim’s family, stated that it was important to determine whether the officer acted alone or under instruction. He stressed that allegations of unlawful possession of firearms do not justify lethal force, noting that due process must be followed in all cases.

He further described the incident as deeply troubling, particularly as it reportedly occurred within a police facility, which should be a place of safety for citizens.

The senior lawyer said he is engaging with police authorities in Delta State and expressed confidence that the matter would be properly investigated and prosecuted. He added that his legal team intends to pursue justice for the victim’s family.