Cynthia Ezegwu
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Tuesday dismissed social media reports alleging a promotion scandal within the Nigeria Police Force, describing them as baseless attempts to discredit the institution.
Egbetokun made the statement during the decoration of 19 newly promoted senior officers, including Deputy Inspector General of Police Mohammed Dan-Kwara, Assistant Inspector General of Police Nkechi Eze, Force Medical Director, and Commissioner of Police Nandel Gonwalk.
The IGP said the claims were the work of “mischief makers” seeking to tarnish the Force’s reputation. He stressed that all promotions under his administration follow due process, are transparent, merit-based, and in strict compliance with established standards.
“In recent months, certain individuals have attempted to cast shadows on the credibility of our promotion process, particularly the accelerated exercise conducted a few months ago. But truth stands taller than rumours. The Nigeria Police Force has nothing to hide and nothing to defend,” Egbetokun said.
He reiterated that promotions in the Force reward diligence, professionalism, and proven capacity, leaving no room for nepotism or sentiment. “Every promotion exercise under this administration has followed due process — transparent, merit-based, and in strict conformity with established standards,” he said.
The IGP described the promotion system as “the cornerstone of our career management philosophy,” motivating excellence, strengthening morale, and renewing public trust in the police.
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Congratulating the newly promoted officers, Egbetokun said, “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 urged the officers to embrace ethical leadership, accountability, and innovation in policing, stressing that adapting to modern security challenges is key to sustaining public confidence. “The landscape of crime is evolving, driven by technology, complexity, and global trends. Nigerians expect a police force that is smarter, more responsive, and deeply connected to communities,” he added.
Egbetokun further encouraged community and intelligence-led policing, noting that the effectiveness of officers would determine both the Force’s reputation and public trust.
The ceremony marked the formal recognition of the officers’ professional achievements and underscored the IGP’s commitment to fairness and meritocracy in career progression within the Nigeria Police Force.