Tension is mounting in Delta State as the Union of Udu Youths, popularly known as Ighelle r’Udu, has strongly condemned the killing of 28-year-old Oghenemine Billion Ogidi, allegedly by a police officer in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.
Addressing journalists, the group expressed deep grief and outrage over the incident, describing it as a “cold-blooded execution” carried out in broad daylight.
The deceased, said to be from Ujevwu community in Udu Kingdom, was reportedly captured in a viral video that has since sparked widespread anger across the state and beyond.
The youth body accused a police officer identified as ASP Usman Usman, alongside alleged accomplices, of deliberately killing Ogidi under questionable circumstances.
According to the group, the victim had already been apprehended and posed no threat at the time of the incident, raising suspicions of a possible cover-up.
“This is not justice. This is not law enforcement. This is a deliberate unlawful execution,” the group declared, insisting that the killing has not only cut short the life and musical aspirations of the young man but also shattered the hopes of his family and the wider Udu community.
While acknowledging reports circulating on social media that the officer involved has been dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force, the group maintained that dismissal alone is insufficient. They called for full prosecution and a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing.
The youths raised several critical questions, including why a suspect who was already subdued and pleading was allegedly shot, and what information the victim might have possessed that could have led to his death. They argued that killing a suspect before interrogation undermines justice and suggests an attempt to conceal vital evidence.
“It becomes a cover-up when a suspect is killed before he can speak. A dead suspect cannot testify,” the statement emphasized.
The group also urged the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, to ensure that justice is pursued to its logical conclusion and to rein in officers accused of harassment and unlawful arrests in Udu Local Government Area. They further called for the dismantling of alleged checkpoints used for extortion within the area.
Despite their anger, Ighelle r’Udu appealed to youths and residents of the kingdom to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands. They assured the public of ongoing engagement with police authorities, including the Area Commander, to monitor developments and ensure accountability.
The group vowed not to allow the case to be swept under the carpet, stressing that justice for Ogidi must serve as a deterrent to what they described as “trigger-happy” officers.
As the situation continues to draw public attention, many observers say the outcome of the case could test public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system and ongoing police reforms.
The youths concluded by offering prayers for the repose of Ogidi’s soul and strength for his grieving family, while reiterating their commitment to pursuing justice.
