Kehinde Fajobi
The Nigeria Police Force has defended its use of leg restraints on Vincent Makinde, a dismissed officer, refuting claims of inhumane treatment and unjustified detention.
In a statement on Wednesday, Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi explained that Makinde was dismissed in 2022 after an orderly room trial found him guilty of multiple offences, including abuse of office, extortion, gross misconduct, and insubordination.
“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,” Adejobi stated.
He added that Makinde escaped lawful custody while awaiting prosecution after assaulting a senior officer.
Makinde resurfaced in June 2024, impersonating an Assistant Superintendent of Police, despite never being cleared of his earlier offences.
“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,” Adejobi said.
He explained that due to Makinde’s violent conduct and prior escape, foot restraining devices were applied during his arrest.
Adejobi assured that the use of such restraints is in line with global best practices and safety protocols, emphasising the necessity to ensure the safety of officers and prevent further escape attempts.