Oghenemine Murder: Prosecution Closes Case, Defence to Open Oct 21

The Delta State Government has intensified its prosecution of five police officers standing trial over the alleged murder of 28-year-old Oghenemine Ogidi, with the prosecution officially closing its case after calling six witnesses before the Delta State High Court sitting in Asaba.

The trial, presided over by Justice Michael Nduka Obi, involves Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Usman Nuhu, ASP Owoloko Daurou, ASP Okoh Kelechi, Inspector Goodluck Kingsley, and Inspector Omonigho Ahweyevu. ASP Usman Nuhu faces a one-count charge of murder, while the other four officers are charged with negligent acts causing harm.

According to prosecution evidence presented in court, ASP Usman Nuhu, also known as Ogbegbe, allegedly shot Ogidi at the Effurun Motor Park after his rifle failed to fire on the initial attempt.

Nuhu subsequently transported Ogidi to the police station, where he allegedly shot him again in the right leg, an action the prosecution maintains was entirely unjustified. The co-defendants reportedly told investigators that Nuhu fired without provocation and ignored interventions by the Area Commander.

Following the cross-examination of the prosecution’s sixth witness, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mr. Tejiri Anuhwin, who led the state legal team alongside Deputy Director Justin Amahi and Principal State Counsel Oghenechawuko Agbatutu, announced the closure of the state’s case.

Speaking to journalists after the session, Anuhwin expressed strong optimism about securing a conviction, describing the evidence presented before the court as overwhelming.

Counsel to the principal defendant, Mr. Uche Chibuogwu, expressed sympathy to the family and widow of the deceased while confirming that the defence had thoroughly cross-examined all state witnesses. Chibuogwu stated that the defence team would file the first defendant’s witness statement on oath within the week and confirmed they would not seek bail at this stage given the sensitivity of the trial.

With the prosecution concluding its submission, the next phase of the trial will see the five defendants open their defence. Justice Michael Nduka Obi has adjourned the matter to October 21, 2026, for the defence team to present its witnesses and evidence, as the Delta State Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring full justice is served.