IGP recommends suspension of officer arrested over killing of Bolanle Raheem

Usman Baba, the inspector-general of police (IGP), has recommended the suspension of Drambi Vandi, the officer arrested over the killing of Bolanle Raheem.

Raheem, a lawyer, was shot dead in an incident involving the police officer, on Sunday.

The lawyer was said to be pregnant with twins at the time of her death.

In a statement on Wednesday, Muyiwa Adejobi, spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), said the suspension is in line with the internal disciplinary measures of the NPF.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc (+), NPM, NEAPS, fdc, CFR, has recommended the immediate suspension of Assistant Superintendent of Police Drambi Vandi, the officer attached to the Ajah Divisional Headquarters of the Lagos State Police Command, responsible for the shooting and killing of Barrister Omobolanle Raheem while waiting for the detailed report on the incident,” the statement reads.

“The IGP noted that the recommendation for the suspension of the officer is in line with the internal disciplinary processes of the Force.

“The IGP further noted that the suspension is also expected to create an enabling environment for necessary legal procedures to uphold justice in the case without interference.

“The suspension is without prejudice to the constitutional presumption of innocence in favour of the officer.”

The IGP said the NPF remains committed to adhering to the rule of law, adding that his administration will not relent in its efforts to ensure justice for the deceased lawyer.

He also appealed to the public “to be calm as all hands are on deck to ensure justice prevails while measures have been put in place to prevent future occurrences”.