ASABA — The Delta State High Court sitting in Asaba was thrown into an emotional atmosphere on Tuesday as the prosecution opened its case against five defendants over the death of Oghenemine Ogidi, with the prosecution alleging that the shooting by a police officer, ASP Usman Nuhu, popularly known as “Ogbegbe,” was not justified.
The case has attracted significant public attention, with residents and civil society groups calling for justice for the deceased under the JusticeForOgidi campaign.
During the proceedings, the prosecution presented evidence alleging that ASP Nuhu gave conflicting accounts of how Ogidi was shot.
According to the prosecution, Nuhu stated in one of his statements that he shot Ogidi “by error,” while in another statement, he reportedly said the shooting occurred “out of anger.”
The prosecution further alleged that Nuhu admitted that the shooting was not justified.
It was also alleged that the police officer initially fired his rifle at Effurun Motor Park after the weapon reportedly failed to discharge at first. The prosecution said Nuhu subsequently took Ogidi to the police office, where he allegedly shot him again in the right leg.
Area Commander Intervened
The court also heard that the Area Commander, ACP Aliyu Shaba, questioned Nuhu at the police station and ordered that Ogidi be immediately taken to Ekpan General Hospital for medical attention.
The prosecution further presented testimony concerning the roles of the other four defendants, alleging that they told investigators that Nuhu opened fire without provocation and continued his actions even after the Area Commander had intervened to de-escalate the situation.
A witness who testified before the court reportedly said Nuhu’s colleagues had sufficient opportunity to prevent the incident.
The witness alleged that the officers watched as Nuhu disarmed, reassembled his rifle and subsequently fired.
Nuhu Collapses in Court
Drama unfolded during the proceedings when ASP Nuhu reportedly collapsed in the courtroom.
He was said to have been revived by court officials, after which the proceedings continued.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Tejiri R. Anuwhi, told the court that the prosecution’s evidence against the defendants was overwhelming.
Anuwhi expressed confidence that the court would ensure justice for Ogidi and his family.
After hearing the prosecution, Justice Michael Nduka Obi adjourned the case to October 21, 2026, for the defence to open its case.
The trial is expected to be closely watched by Ogidi’s family, civil society organisations and members of the public who have continued to demand accountability over his death.
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