Ogidi Killing: Every Life Must Be Protected – Akpabio

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called for justice and strengthened national accountability following the alleged extrajudicial killing of 28-year-old Mene Ogidi.

Addressing lawmakers before the commencement of plenary, Akpabio described the incident as “a matter that strikes at the moral fabric of our nation,” and said it demanded urgent attention from both the legislature and security authorities.

“Before we proceed with today’s business, I consider it necessary to address the tragic extrajudicial killing of citizen Mele Ogidi, just 28 years old,” he said.

Ogidi, an indigene of Ujevwu in Udu Local Government Area, was reportedly shot dead on April 26, 2026, in circumstances that have triggered public outrage and renewed concerns over alleged police brutality and misuse of force.

On behalf of the Senate and the National Assembly, Akpabio extended condolences to the bereaved family, the Ujevwu community, and Nigerians affected by the incident.

“Every Nigerian life is sacred. The strength of our Republic rests on the assurance that the life of every citizen, regardless of status, location, or circumstance, must be protected under the law,” he stated.

He stressed that national unity and stability depend on public confidence in state institutions, particularly security agencies.

“Every nation is built on trust—trust that the uniform of the state will protect, not harm; trust that authority will be exercised with restraint, not impunity; and trust that when wrong is done, justice will be swift, fair, and certain,” Akpabio added.

The Senate President acknowledged steps reportedly taken by the Nigerian Police Force, including the identification, dismissal, and prosecution of officers allegedly involved in the killing.

“Such decisive action sends a clear message that Nigeria will not shield misconduct and that accountability remains a cornerstone of our democracy,” he noted.

However, he insisted that the process must not end at preliminary actions, stressing the need for full and transparent justice.

“This commendable beginning must lead to conclusive justice. The Nigerian people expect and deserve nothing less than a transparent and diligent process that will culminate in justice being done and being seen to be done,” he said.

Akpabio also urged renewed commitment to justice, rule of law, and institutional strengthening, noting that law enforcement agencies must be both empowered and held accountable.

“In this hour of mourning, we are summoned to reaffirm our devotion to the sanctity of human life, the supremacy of the law, and the strengthening of our institutions,” he said.

He called on the senator representing the affected constituency to convey the Senate’s condolences to the family and urged authorities to ensure the case is fully investigated alongside broader police reforms.

“Let this moment of grief spur us to renew our resolve to build a nation where justice knows no bias, institutions command trust, and every Nigerian lives free from fear,” he added.

The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the deceased as calls for accountability and security reforms continue to grow nationwide.