The Delta State Police Command has firmly denied claims that the body of Oghenemine Ogidi, a 28-year-old musician allegedly killed by a police officer, is missing, stating that the remains are securely held in a state mortuary and accessible to his family. The clarification comes after social media reports suggested the family had been denied access and that authorities could not account for the corpse. In response, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, took to his 𝕏 handle to dismiss the circulating rumors as false and misleading. He emphasized that the body is currently under official custody and that the family has been informed they can visit it at any time.
SP Edafe explained that the case has been classified as a suspected murder, which legally necessitates a mandatory autopsy. He noted that the family has consented to the post-mortem examination, which is part of the standard procedure in such cases. “His body is at the mortuary, and the family have been told that whenever they want to see it, they will be allowed to,” Edafe stated. He added, “It’s a case of suspected murder, so an autopsy is compulsory, and the family also agreed to this. Thank you.” The statement aims to restore public confidence and counter misinformation spreading online.
Ogidi, who was known locally as a musician, was reportedly shot dead in broad daylight in Effurun, a town in Delta State. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice, especially given the circumstances surrounding the alleged use of excessive force by law enforcement. The police command has confirmed that the officer allegedly responsible, ASP Nuhu Usman, has been arrested and transferred to the Force Headquarters for further disciplinary action. This move underscores the command’s commitment to accountability and transparency in handling the case.
At the federal level, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has approved the immediate dismissal and prosecution of all personnel involved in the incident. This decision reflects a broader effort to uphold the integrity of the police force and address public concerns about misconduct. The case has drawn significant attention across Nigeria, with many demanding swift justice and reforms in police operations.
As investigations continue, the Delta State Police Command remains under scrutiny, but its efforts to provide clear, factual updates aim to prevent the spread of unverified claims. The case highlights the ongoing tension between law enforcement and communities, particularly in cases involving alleged police brutality. Moving forward, the outcome of the autopsy and the legal proceedings against ASP Nuhu Usman will be closely watched by the public and civil society groups alike.
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