Police in Delta State have pointed to a spiritual attack as the only explanation for why an officer opened fire on a suspect who lay tied up and pleaded for his life.
The incident happened on 26 April when officers went to take custody of 28-year-old Mene Ogidi at the Benin Motor Park along the Warri-Sapele Expressway.
Members of a transport union had earlier stopped him as he tried to send a parcel that contained a pistol and ammunition.
Video from the scene shows Ogidi on the ground with his hands and legs bound.
He begs the officers repeatedly, offering to cooperate and give them information.
Despite this, the team leader, Assistant Superintendent of Police Nuhu Usman, fires his weapon and ends Ogidi’s life.
Bright Edafe, spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, described the moment as one of the most difficult in his time in the role.
He told journalists that spirituality offers the only explanation for what the officer did.
“Police cannot normally attribute problems to spirituality,” Edafe said, “but that may not be far from it, because that is the only explanation one can give.”
The police statement notes that Usman acted in clear breach of Force Order 237 and the standard operating procedures of the Nigeria Police Force.
Officers are trained to use firearms only as a last resort, yet the suspect posed no immediate threat once restrained.
Commissioner of Police Yemi Oyeniyi quickly ordered the arrest of ASP Usman and his team.
Authorities transferred the officer to Force Headquarters in Abuja, where he now faces the Force Disciplinary Committee.
The command has also said he will stand trial for murder.
The video spread quickly online and sparked widespread anger among Nigerians who watched the helpless man lose his life in broad daylight.
Many questioned how such an event could occur in full view of other officers and bystanders.
Police leaders have condemned the action and promised to follow due process.
They stress that the force expects every officer to respect human rights and the rule of law at all times.
The case now rests with higher authorities for full investigation and prosecution.
This event adds to ongoing public concern about how some officers handle suspects in custody.
While the police have moved fast to arrest the officer involved, many people will watch closely to see whether justice follows through to the end.
