The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned the alleged extrajudicial killing of a suspect by police officers in Delta State.

NBA described such act as a grave violation of the rule of law and fundamental human rights.

In a statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe on Wednesday, the association said it was deeply disturbed by a viral video showing the incident.

It noted that no law enforcement officer has the authority to act outside the bounds of the law.

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“No law enforcement officer has the power to act as prosecutor, judge, and executioner,” the NBA said.

The association described the incident as “an arbitrary, unprovoked and misguided show of power,” warning that such actions undermine public trust and portray the police in a negative light.

According to the NBA, the act reflects ongoing concerns about rights violations by security operatives, stressing that unlawful conduct by law enforcement agents must not be tolerated in a democratic society.

“The gravity of the offence captured in that video strikes at the very heart of our humanity, the rule of law, and the constitutional guarantees of the right to life and dignity of the human person,” the statement added.

While commending the police authorities for reportedly arresting the principal officer involved, the NBA insisted that accountability must go beyond a single individual.

“The investigation, arrest and prosecution process must extend to any other officer who may have counselled, aided or abetted the extrajudicial killing, as they will be jointly liable,” it said.

The association called for a transparent and expedited prosecution process, warning that any attempt to shield those responsible would further erode public confidence in law enforcement institutions.

It also directed its Human Rights Committees in Warri, Effurun, and Udu to monitor the case closely and ensure that justice is served.

The NBA extended condolences to the family of the deceased and reiterated the urgent need for comprehensive police reforms, particularly in the areas of accountability, use of force, and respect for human rights.

“This incident underscores the urgent need for reform. The bad elements in the Force must be shown the way out to prevent further damage to its image,” the statement added.