The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has dismissed claims of favouritism and irregularities in recent police promotions, saying all promotions under his leadership were based on merit and transparency.
Speaking on Tuesday at the decoration of newly promoted senior officers at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, Egbetokun said those spreading such allegations were only trying to damage public trust in the Police.
He said, “Recent months have witnessed attempts by certain mischief-makers to cast shadows on the credibility of our promotion process, particularly the accelerated promotion exercise conducted a few months ago. But truth stands taller than rumours. The Nigeria Police Force has nothing to hide and nothing to defend.”
He explained that every promotion exercise followed due process and was in line with established standards.
“There is no place for favouritism or tribal sentiment in the Nigeria Police Force. Our promotions are guided solely by competence, performance, and discipline. This remains the cornerstone of our career management philosophy,” he said.
Egbetokun, who decorated newly promoted Deputy Inspectors-General, Assistant Inspectors-General, and Commissioners of Police, described the ceremony as a reflection of integrity and excellence within the Force.
He congratulated the officers, saying their elevation recognised their discipline and patriotism, while reminding them that higher ranks come with greater responsibility.
“Every insignia worn at this level must represent not privilege, but purpose — a reminder that authority is meaningful only when it uplifts the institution and strengthens public trust,” he said.
The IG urged senior officers to embrace intelligence-driven and community policing methods to tackle crimes influenced by technology and global trends.
He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting ongoing police reforms and commended the Police Service Commission for ensuring fairness in promotion processes.
Earlier this month, the Police Service Commission approved the promotion of CP Abibo Reuben to Assistant Inspector-General of Police, along with 11 Deputy Commissioners of Police elevated to the rank of Commissioners.
