The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has debunked reports of a promotion scandal within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), describing the allegations circulating on social media as “baseless fabrications” aimed at discrediting the institution.
Egbetokun made the clarification on Tuesday in Abuja during the decoration of 19 newly promoted senior officers, including Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Mohammed Dan-Kwara, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Nkechi Eze, Force Medical Director, and Commissioner of Police Nandel Gonwalk, among others.
Addressing the officers, the IGP described the claims as the handiwork of “mischief makers” seeking to tarnish the image of the Force.
“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 stated.
He emphasized that every promotion under his administration had followed due process, was transparent, merit-based, and in strict conformity with established standards.
“We will not be swayed by those who trade in falsehood or seek to undermine the integrity of our institution,” he said.
“Every promotion exercise under this administration has followed due process — transparent, merit-based, and in strict conformity with established standards. There is no promotion scandal in the Nigeria Police Force. What we have is a system that rewards diligence, professionalism, and proven capacity.”
According to him, the Force’s promotion system is the cornerstone of its career management philosophy, one that motivates excellence, strengthens morale, and reinforces public trust.
“Our commitment to fairness and merit remains unwavering. Promotions today are guided solely by competence, performance, and discipline. There is no place for nepotism or sentiment,” he declared.
Egbetokun congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing their elevation as an affirmation of excellence, integrity, and dedication to service.
“Today, we celebrate not just advancement in rank, but the affirmation of excellence, character, and distinguished service within the Nigeria Police Force,” he 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 see their promotion as a call to greater responsibility, accountability, and ethical leadership.
“Leadership at this level demands equity, justice, and fairness, the enduring values that define true authority and inspire confidence within and beyond the Force,” the police chief charged.
“Your actions will set the tone for discipline, professionalism, and morale across the service. Lead with fairness, act with integrity, and let justice be your guiding light in your service to the public.”
Egbetokun also challenged the officers to adapt to modern policing realities and embrace innovation in tackling crime.
“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 said.
He called on the officers to embrace community and intelligence-led policing, leverage technology, and empower their subordinates to stay ahead of emerging threats.
“Your effectiveness will determine not just the reputation of the Force, but the public’s confidence in our ability to ensure safety and justice,” he added.
