Five dismissed police officers, including Usman Nuhu pleaded not guilty to charges arising from the alleged extra-judicial killing of 28-year-old musician Oghenemine Ogidi.
According to Leadership Newspaper, the officers were arraigned before Justice M. Nduka of the Delta State High Court 4 in Asaba over the April 26, 2026 incident in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
Nuhu is standing trial on a one-count charge of murder, the other defendants—ASPs Owoloko Daurou Pamo and Okoh Kelechi, and Inspectors Goodluck Kingsley while Omonigho Ahweyevu—are facing charges of negligent acts causing harm, accordingly.
During the hearing on Tuesday, the prosecution, Ogidi was restrained on the ground before ASP Nuhu allegedly shot him at close range in the presence of the other officers.
All five defendants pleaded not guilty after the charges were read, before Justice Nduka subsequently adjourned the case until July 14, 2026, for the commencement of trial.
Speaking after the proceedings, Delta State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole (SAN), said the state was fully prepared to prosecute the case and ensure justice was served.
He described the alleged killing as “abhorrent”, saying the arraignment marked the formal commencement of the criminal trial.
“The defendants have been arraigned and have taken their pleas, which they are entitled to do. They pleaded not guilty, but our case is very straightforward. Nobody has the right to make himself the accuser, the judge and the executioner,” according to Ohwovoriole.
He urged residents to remain calm and allow the judicial process to run its course, assuring them that the prosecution would present all its witnesses at the next hearing.
Counsel to two of the defendants, Barrister C. Promise, said the defence was ready for trial.
“They have taken their pleas and the matter has been adjourned to July 14. We will return to court on that date for the trial,” according to him.
