The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has dismissed claims that recent police promotions were tainted by favouritism or irregularities.
Speaking at the decoration ceremony for newly promoted senior officers in Abuja on Tuesday, Egbetokun said every officer elevated under his watch earned it through merit, performance, and discipline – not connections or tribal ties.
“The Nigeria Police Force has nothing to hide and nothing to defend,” the IGP said firmly. “Every promotion exercise under this administration has followed due process, guided by transparency and merit.”
In recent weeks, some officers and social media commentators had accused the Force of “backdoor” promotions, especially during the last accelerated promotion round. Critics claimed some officers were moved up the ranks ahead of their time.
Egbetokun waved off those reports as “mischief” intended to weaken public trust in the police. He said the promotion process had been closely supervised by both the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Force Management Team, leaving no room for manipulation.
“There is no place for favouritism or tribal sentiment in the Nigeria Police Force,” he said. “Our system rewards diligence, professionalism, and proven capacity.”
During the ceremony, newly promoted Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs), Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), and Commissioners of Police (CPs) were decorated.
Egbetokun congratulated them, reminding them that higher rank comes with higher responsibility.
“Every insignia worn at this level must represent not privilege, but purpose,” he said. “Authority means nothing if it does not uplift the institution and strengthen public trust.”
He urged the officers to embrace community and intelligence-led policing, noting that modern crime now operates with global reach and technology.
“Nigerians expect a smarter, more responsive Police Force,” he said. “We must stay ahead of criminals by investing in technology and empowering our personnel.”
The IGP also commended President Bola Tinubu for backing ongoing police reforms, and praised the Police Service Commission for keeping the promotion process transparent.
Earlier this month, the PSC confirmed the promotion of CP Abibo Reuben to Assistant Inspector-General and elevated 11 Deputy Commissioners to substantive Commissioners of Police. The move is part of ongoing restructuring aimed at improving leadership depth within the Force.
Egbetokun said the latest promotions should remind officers that integrity and commitment are still recognised and rewarded in the Nigerian Police.
