The Delta State Police Command has officially denied allegations that its officers were involved in a shooting incident that occurred at the Ogbeogonogo Market area on May 6, 2026.
The denial comes in response to a viral video showing a young man being shot in the Ogbilo axis of the market. In the footage, bystanders are heard accusing police operatives of pulling the trigger, a claim the Command described as “false and unfounded.”
In a statement released Thursday, State Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe clarified that no police personnel engaged in a shooting in that area on the date mentioned.
“There is no verifiable fact to suggest police involvement. The victim’s friend, who was reportedly taken away by the gunmen, is not being held in any of our detention facilities,” Edafe stated.
Preliminary investigations identified the victim by his nickname, “Aboy.”
According to the Command, Aboy is currently receiving treatment for his injuries. Police records further suggest the victim is a suspected member of a local cult group and had previously survived a similar shooting incident four years ago.
The police highlighted that the abduction of the victim’s unidentified friend points toward a targeted attack or “suspected abduction” rather than a law enforcement operation.
CP Yemi Oyeniyi, the Commissioner of Police for Delta State, has expressed serious concern over the incident and the ensuing public outcry. He has since ordered the Command’s Anti-Cultism Unit to spearhead a full-scale investigation to identify the gunmen and determine the motive behind the attack.
While reaffirming the Command’s commitment to eradicating cult-related violence, CP Oyeniyi urged citizens to verify information before circulating claims on social media.
The Command is appealing to witnesses or anyone with relevant information to reach out via the Control Room at 08036684974 or the Complaint Response Unit at 09155570008 or 09011112311.
