A document obtained by Chronicles Reporters has revealed discrepancies in the claims by the Nigeria Police Force regarding the status of Vincent Makinde, a Police Inspector. Contrary to the police’s public assertion that Makinde was dismissed in 2022, the document indicates he remains an active officer.
The police had earlier stated that Makinde was dismissed after an investigation and orderly room trial. They alleged his removal was due to offenses including abuse of office, extortion, misconduct, dereliction of duty, and insubordination. However, the newly surfaced document shows otherwise, challenging the narrative presented by the police.
Makinde endured weeks of detention in leg chains at the Asokoro Police Station, subjected to degrading treatment. A letter obtained by Chronicles Reporters and dated October 23, 2024, was addressed to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID), Intelligence Response Team (IRT), and the Nigeria Police Force. It confirmed that Makinde was still in active service at the time.
The letter, signed by CP Vungmoh S.M. Kwaimo, Commissioner of Police (FEDOPS), stated:
“AP/NO 189553 ASP VINCENT MAKINDE JULIUS. The above-named officer is a serving member of the Nigeria Police Force attached to the Department of Operations, Force Headquarters, Abuja. He requires a letter to open his accounts placed on Post No Debit (PND) by the various banks as shown below: Kindly render to him all necessary assistance he may require in this regard.”
The letter concluded with warm regards from the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Department of Operations.
Police Justify Leg Restraints
Earlier, Chronicles Reporters detailed the police’s justification for the use of leg restraints on Makinde, following the circulation of a viral video. In the video, Makinde, now identified as an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), was seen shackled. The police explained that the restraints were a security measure after Makinde reportedly escaped from lawful custody.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, defended the police’s actions. He asserted that Makinde’s detention was lawful and that the restraints were necessary to prevent further security risks.
The police reiterated their earlier stance, claiming Makinde was dismissed in 2022 for serious misconduct. According to Adejobi, Makinde later resurfaced in June 2024, falsely presenting himself as an ASP and armed with a rifle. He reportedly resisted arrest violently.
Human Rights Concerns
Makinde’s detention and treatment have drawn criticism, including from human rights lawyer Femi Falana, who called for his immediate release and urged the police to respect human rights. However, the police maintained that their actions were in line with standard security protocols.
Adejobi stated, “The suspect was apprehended while impersonating an active senior police officer. His violent resistance during arrest necessitated the use of feet restraints to ensure safety and prevent another escape attempt.”
He added that the use of restraining devices is a globally accepted practice for individuals resisting lawful detention aggressively.
Investigations Continue
The police also accused Makinde of further offenses, claiming he remains in custody awaiting prosecution. Adejobi described Makinde as a dismissed officer and a serial criminal, asserting that investigations into his alleged impersonation and other activities are ongoing.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to transparency and accountability, striving to maintain public trust,” the statement concluded.
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