IGP Egbetokun’s Police Force Embroiled in Promotion Scandal as Deputy Senate President’s Aide Gets Unprecedented Double Promotion
A recent promotion exercise in the Nigerian Police Force has sparked outrage among officers, who claim that the process was tainted by irregularities, corruption, and favoritism.
The controversy surrounds the promotion of Abdulrahman Baba Garba, the Aide-de-camp to the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, who was promoted twice within a year, violating the police Act.
According to the police Act, officers must meet specific criteria to be eligible for promotion, including serving three years in their current rank and earning B grades in their annual performance evaluations for three consecutive years.
However, Garba’s rapid promotion has raised eyebrows, with many officers questioning the fairness and transparency of the process.
One officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed frustration with the system, stating that personnel attached to top politicians are often given preferential treatment, including promotions, regardless of their qualifications or performance.
Another officer noted that this favoritism has eroded trust and respect among police personnel, with some officers feeling demotivated and undervalued.
The Police Service Commission had announced the abolition of special promotions in the Force in September 2024, emphasizing that merit-based promotions would be the new norm.
