A storm of public criticism is sweeping through the Nigeria Police Force and the wider Nigerian public following revelations that Bukola Kuti, a police officer alleged to be romantically linked to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has been promoted to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) — just 10 years into her service.
The promotion, which was quietly ratified during the most recent police promotion exercise, has sparked allegations of favoritism, abuse of office, and a deepening erosion of meritocracy within Nigeria’s security architecture.
Sources within the Force, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that Kuti’s meteoric rise has bypassed standard promotion timelines and requirements. “It’s unheard of. Officers with more experience, impeccable records, and higher qualifications are being overlooked. Meanwhile, someone who joined the Force just a decade ago is already at ACP rank?” a visibly frustrated senior officer remarked.
The controversy has ignited furious reactions from civil society organizations, retired police personnel, and citizens online, who have called for an immediate investigation. Social media platforms are awash with hashtags like #PoliceNepotism and #IGPMistressScandal, reflecting a broad sense of disillusionment with the police leadership.
“The integrity of the police force is at stake. Promotions should be based on merit, experience, and service to the nation—not on personal relationships or private affiliations,” said Mrs. Adanna Obiechina, spokesperson for the Centre for Accountability in Governance (CAG). “If true, this represents a gross violation of the ethics expected from the nation’s top cop.”
While the IGP has yet to publicly respond to the allegations, a terse statement from Force Headquarters earlier today defended the promotion exercise as “in line with due process and reflective of the officer’s performance.” However, critics argue that the lack of transparency in the criteria used raises more questions than answers.
“The Nigerian Police Force must come clean,” said retired DIG Aliyu Makarfi. “We’ve fought for years to build a system that rewards professionalism and service. This kind of favoritism erodes that progress and demoralizes hardworking officers.”
Bukola Kuti, who until recently was serving as a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), has not issued any public statement regarding the matter. Attempts to reach her for comments have been unsuccessful.
As the controversy continues to unfold, many Nigerians are calling on the Police Service Commission, the Presidency, and the National Assembly to step in and probe the entire promotion process. Some have also demanded the resignation of IGP Egbetokun if the allegations are substantiated.