The Nigerian Police Force has come under fire following a viral video showing a detained officer, Vincent Makinde, restrained in leg cuffs.
Amid widespread outrage, the Force insists the restraint was justified, citing security concerns and Makinde’s alleged violent history.
The case drew national attention after prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), demanded Makinde’s immediate release, labeling the treatment inhumane.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, defended the police’s actions, describing them as lawful and necessary.
“He Escaped Custody,” Police Claim
Adejobi stated that Makinde, who was previously dismissed as a police inspector, was rearrested in June 2024 after escaping from lawful custody in 2022.
“Makinde’s use of leg restraints was a precautionary measure,” Adejobi explained. “This was due to his violent nature and history of escaping detention.”
According to the police, Makinde’s alleged crimes include abuse of office, extortion, and impersonation.
A Dramatic Downfall
Makinde’s troubles began in 2022 when he was dismissed from the Force following an investigation and trial at an orderly room hearing.
The police said his offences included gross misconduct, dereliction of duty, and assaulting a senior officer.
However, despite his dismissal, Makinde reportedly resurfaced, claiming to still be a legitimate officer.
He was arrested earlier this year while allegedly impersonating an Assistant Superintendent of Police and carrying a rifle.
“When approached, Makinde resisted arrest violently,” Adejobi said. “This made the use of leg restraints necessary to ensure safety and prevent another escape.”
Falana Condemns Treatment
Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, expressed outrage over the treatment of Makinde.
“This is a clear violation of human rights,” Falana said in his appeal. “Makinde must be released immediately, and the police must uphold the dignity of detainees.”
Falana’s call for justice sparked public criticism of the police, with many Nigerians questioning the Force’s methods.
“It’s Global Practice,” Police Insist
The police, however, dismissed claims of mistreatment.
“The use of restraining devices is a global practice,” Adejobi said. “These measures are employed when individuals aggressively resist lawful detention.”
Adejobi further alleged that Makinde’s violent behavior posed a threat to officers and others around him.
“It was necessary to secure both his safety and that of the officers on duty,” he added.
“Makinde is a Serial Offender”
The police’s statement painted a damning picture of Makinde.
Adejobi revealed that investigations have linked the former officer to other criminal activities beyond his initial offences.
“Makinde remains a dismissed officer and a serial offender,” Adejobi said. “Investigations into his impersonation and other crimes are ongoing.”
Public Trust at Stake
This case has highlighted the tension between law enforcement practices and public perception of justice in Nigeria.
While the police emphasize their commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, critics argue that such incidents erode public trust.
“Police officers are meant to uphold the law, not abuse it,” Falana said.
For many Nigerians, the sight of a restrained officer symbolizes a system grappling with its own integrity.
The Larger Picture
Makinde’s case is not an isolated incident.
Human rights groups have frequently criticized the Nigerian Police Force for alleged brutality and mishandling of detainees.
The #EndSARS protests in 2020 brought global attention to these issues, forcing the government to promise reforms.
However, cases like Makinde’s suggest that challenges remain.
Adejobi stressed that the Force is determined to “uphold justice and hold personnel accountable for their actions.”
But critics believe actions speak louder than words.
The Questions Remain
Makinde’s arrest has left many Nigerians asking tough questions.
Could the situation have been handled differently?
Was the use of leg restraints truly necessary, or does it reflect deeper flaws in the system?
As investigations continue, all eyes remain on the police and their handling of the case.
For now, the story of Vincent Makinde serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between security and human rights in Nigeria.
