The Lagos State Police have clarified their decision to place three dogs in “protective custody” as investigations continue into the alleged killing of a security guard on the night of November 5, 2024, at Pinnock Estate in Ilasan, Lekki.
Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin emphasised that the custody decision was motivated by both a commitment to a thorough investigation and the need to shield the dogs from local residents who had threatened to kill them.
“We do not condone cruelty to animals,” Hundeyin stated. “The dogs are receiving the best treatment under the care of our K-9 unit. Protecting them was necessary, not only to investigate but also to prevent angry residents from killing them.”
According to Hundeyin, tensions were high, with some residents determined to eliminate the animals, prompting the police to act swiftly.
Despite assurances, photos posted by Hundeyin showing the dogs tied outside sparked criticism from animal rights advocates, who questioned whether the treatment truly reflected “protective custody.”
Some observers noted that the dogs appeared to be tied too close to an AC condenser, raising concerns about the heat. “This isn’t the ‘best treatment,’ sir,” tweeted a user known as @la_vétérinaire, “The heat from that and the sun could cause heat stroke.”
Hundeyin responded to these criticisms, affirming that the police are dedicated to treating the dogs with “respect and dignity” until the investigation concludes.
“This case involves both human life and animal welfare,” Hundeyin explained. “We are committed to justice and will ensure that both the safety of the community and the rights of the animals are considered.”
The death of the security guard, who was reportedly on duty when attacked, has ignited an online debate, with some dog owners and animal lovers expressing doubt that the dogs are responsible.
The dogs belong to Salisu Mustapha, who is currently in police custody as the investigation unfolds. Although the Lagos State Police Command maintains that the dogs may be implicated, skepticism has grown on social media.
Numerous dog lovers have questioned the lack of visible signs on the dogs in a video taken after the incident. Social media influencer Arojinle, tweeting as @arojinle1, commented, “If you know even a bit about dogs, you’d know they didn’t kill the man! There would be blood on their mouths, and his clothes would be torn. These dogs look curious, not guilty.” Arojinle added that the man might have fainted or been asleep and questioned whether an official autopsy had confirmed the cause of death.
Another user, @iMobo, echoed this sentiment: “Has an autopsy been done to determine if the dogs actually killed him?” Similar doubts were raised by @Jesse1313, who asked, “Did the man have bite marks to show he was bitten?”
However, Hundeyin replied directly to these comments, attempting to quell the doubts. “I do not want to post gory pictures of the bloodied bite marks and tears on the victim’s body from head to toe,” he tweeted, reminding the public that an investigation is still underway.
Despite Hundeyin’s response, calls for the dogs to be euthanized have surged, with some expressing fear over the dogs’ potential threat if they are allowed to live. One social media user, @Awele_Of_Africa, insisted, “Just euthanize the dogs!” echoing the growing calls for their immediate termination in the interest of public safety.
Yet, not everyone is convinced that euthanizing the dogs is the correct approach. Commenters like @Anabskey argued that the primary responsibility lies with the dog owner. “The owner will answer for it, not the animal,” the user remarked, supporting the police’s thorough investigative approach.
Some, however, were disappointed with what they saw as delayed justice, arguing that in other countries, the dogs would have already been put down. “In saner climes, the dogs would be put down instantly,” tweeted @Francheski64.
This tragic incident has sparked a broader conversation in Nigeria about animal control and the responsibilities of pet ownership, especially in densely populated areas like Lagos. Many citizens have called for stricter regulations to ensure that pet owners are held accountable for any harm caused by their animals.
As the investigation continues, the public remains divided. On one side, there are those calling for justice for the deceased, including the potential euthanization of the dogs; on the other, animal lovers and advocates argue that the dogs deserve fair treatment and that the owner should face consequences.
The Lagos State Police assure that the dogs will remain under their watch until the case concludes. The outcome of this case may set a precedent for handling similar incidents in Nigeria, balancing community safety with animal welfare in urban environments.
