A major scandal is brewing within the Nigeria Police Force following the controversial promotion of Bukola Kuti, who sources claim is romantically involved with Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.
Kuti, who currently serves as Principal Staff Officer (PSO 3) to the IGP, has reportedly been promoted to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)—just 10 years into her service.
This meteoric rise has sparked outrage among officers, many of whom have remained stuck at the Superintendent of Police (SP) level for much longer.
Allegations of Favoritism and Fast-Tracked Promotion of Kuti
According to insider sources, Bukola Kuti had only spent six months in the rank of Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) before being elevated to ACP. Many within the force view this as irregular and indicative of favoritism, particularly given her close personal relationship with the IGP.
The Police Service Commission (PSC) reportedly approved a list of 37 special promotions, largely curated by IGP Egbetokun himself. However, growing internal backlash has stalled the public announcement of these promotions.
Domestic Roles Over Police Duties?
Beyond her role as a PSO, Kuti is allegedly involved in managing the IGP’s personal and domestic affairs, alongside another female officer identified only as Yemisi, who holds the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP). Yemisi is said to frequently accompany the IGP on both official and personal trips.
A source within the force stated:
“Kuti handles domestic affairs for the IGP. She’s not known for real police work—she runs catering services and still gets promoted over hardworking officers.”
Kuti’s rapid rise has reportedly demoralized many officers, especially those who joined the force around the same time but remain in lower ranks. The perceived injustice has heightened institutional discontent and raised questions about transparency and meritocracy within the police force.
The promotion list has also stirred ethnic tensions, with 30 out of the 37 officers reportedly of Yoruba origin. Critics claim this reinforces the perception that IGP Egbetokun is leading a regionally biased administration, a concern echoed across various police commands.
To ease tensions, insiders say there have been discussions about releasing the promotion list in batches, although pressure is mounting on the PSC to publish the entire list.
Interestingly, Kuti’s promotion has not been officially announced, allegedly to avoid public backlash. This discretion comes amid other leadership shake-ups—such as the recent removal of Asuquo, a senior officer connected to an age falsification scandal, which reportedly paved the way for Kuti’s advancement.
Also on the list of special promotions is Force PRO Muyiwa Adejobi, who has faced multiple allegations by female officers but continues to receive backing from top leadership
