Police defend use of chain on dismissed officer

The Nigeria Police Force has justified the use of leg restraints on a former police officer, Vincent Makinde.

The police also refuted claims that Makinde was detained without justification.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) had called for Makinde’s release, alleging inhumane treatment and questioning the circumstances of his detention.

Responding to the allegations, the police, in a statement on Wednesday by Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, stated that Makinde had served as a Police Inspector and was dismissed in 2022 following an orderly room trial.

Adejobi explained that the trial found Makinde guilty of multiple offences, including abuse of office, extortion, gross misconduct, and insubordination.

He said, “The police hereby clarify that contrary to the erroneous narrative, Vincent Makinde was dismissed as a Police Inspector from the Nigeria Police Force in 2022 following a thorough investigation and orderly room trial due to several serious offences, such as abuse of office, extortion, gross misconduct, dereliction of duty, and insubordination, among others.

“While awaiting the validation of the orderly room proceedings and subsequent prosecution, Vincent Makinde assaulted a senior police officer on duty and subsequently escaped from lawful custody.”

Adejobi noted that Makinde resurfaced in June 2024, posing as a bona fide member of the Nigeria Police Force and wearing the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police, despite not being absolved of his previous offences or promoted.

“Upon discovering this, the Police authority issued a directive for his immediate re-arrest.

“The suspect was apprehended while impersonating an active, sworn senior police officer and carrying a rifle. When approached by police operatives, Vincent Makinde exhibited violent and aggressive behaviour, resisting lawful arrest and detention.

“Due to his continuous violent conduct and his prior escape from lawful custody, the suspect was restrained using foot restraining devices,” Adejobi added.

He stated that the restraints were deemed necessary to ensure the safety of officers on duty and to prevent another escape attempt.

Adejobi maintained that the police actions aligned with global best practices and safety protocols.