The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the extrajudicial killing of a suspect by police officers in Delta State, declaring that no law enforcement officer has the authority to act as “prosecutor, judge, and executioner.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the NBA expressed deep concern over a viral video showing the summary execution of a suspect, an incident that has since sparked widespread outrage.
The group described the act as “arbitrary, unprovoked, and a misguided show of power,” warning that such conduct undermines the rule of law and erodes public confidence in security institutions.
The statement, signed by the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), noted that the actions of the officer involved not only violated the rights of the victim but also brought the Nigeria Police Force into disrepute.
According to the NBA, the incident reflects a troubling pattern of alleged rights violations by some law enforcement personnel, including the abuse of criminal suspects and, in some cases, innocent citizens.
“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is clear: every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction,” the statement read. “No officer of the law, regardless of rank or circumstance, has the right to take the law into his own hands.”
The association warned that unchecked abuses by security agencies could create a climate of impunity where fundamental human rights lose their meaning. It described the killing as a grave violation of the constitutional rights to life and human dignity, stressing that such acts have no place in a modern democratic society.
While acknowledging the police authorities’ move to arrest the officer directly responsible, the NBA insisted that accountability must not stop there. It pointed out that the viral footage suggests the involvement or complicity of other officers at the scene.
“The investigation, arrest, and prosecution process must extend to any officer who aided, abetted, or was otherwise complicit in this heinous act,” the association stated, adding that all parties found culpable should be held jointly liable.
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The NBA further called for a transparent and expedited prosecution process, warning that any attempt to shield those responsible or delay justice would further damage public trust in law enforcement institutions.
To ensure accountability, the association directed its Human Rights Committees in Warri, Effurun, and Udu areas of Delta State to monitor developments closely and engage with relevant authorities. It also tasked its national Human Rights and Civil Liberties Committees with tracking similar cases across the country and taking necessary legal steps to protect citizens’ rights.
Reiterating its condemnation, the NBA urged authorities to take decisive action against erring officers, stressing that “bad elements” within the police force must be identified and removed to preserve the institution’s integrity.
The association also extended condolences to the family of the deceased, describing the incident as a painful and avoidable loss. It assured them of its commitment to pursuing justice and ensuring that the memory of the victim is not overshadowed by impunity.
The NBA noted that the incident highlights the urgent need for comprehensive police reforms in Nigeria, particularly in the areas of accountability, use of force, and respect for human rights.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.