IGP to take disciplinary action against officers soliciting ‘undeserved promotion’

Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector-general of police (IGP), says he will take disciplinary action against officers soliciting undeserved promotion.

Egbetokun spoke in Abuja on Friday during the decoration of newly promoted officers at the force headquarters.

The IGP said some “unscrupulous officers” are lobbying influential personalities to get undeserved promotions.

Egbetokun warned that severe disciplinary measures” would be taken against officers caught seeking undue promotions.

“Since the inception of the current police administration under my leadership, we have been committed to the standardisation of the promotion process within the force,” he said.

“Consequently, the current promotion exercise, like those preceding it under this administration, adheres strictly to the fundamental principles of seniority and merit.

“I wish to reaffirm unequivocally that our promotion process will continue to be transparent and fair to all our officers. No officer eligible for promotion will be denied their rightful advancement.

“At the outset of this administration, we announced the suspension of special promotions to ensure a fair, equitable, and transparent promotion process.

“While we acknowledge that exceptional circumstances may warrant special promotions, we will take appropriate and expedient action when necessary.

“We will revisit this decision at the right time and make exceptions where deserved, balancing individual merit with the need for a fair and equitable process.

“I would like to take this opportunity to issue a stern warning to unscrupulous officers who are attempting to undermine our merit-based promotion system for personal gain.

“I urge them to cease lobbying for special promotions through influential persons and external forces.

“From now on, severe disciplinary action will be taken against any officer found guilty of soliciting underserved promotions through illicit means, masquerading as special promotions. This also applies to officers soliciting preferential postings.”

The IGP congratulated officers who were promoted to the ranks of deputy inspector-general of police, assistant inspector-general of police, and commissioners of police.

Egbetokun told the officers that they earned promotions for maintaining an unwavering focus on their objectives.

“Wear your new ranks with pride, and let them serve as constant reminders of the trust and confidence reposed in you,” he said.

“Strive daily to meet the high standards expected of you. Lead with courage, act with integrity, and serve with dedication. 

“Remember, promotions may come and go, but your hard work will leave a lasting legacy. Also, recognise that you are supervisors and trainers of men; all subordinate officers look to you for guidance and mentorship.

“The quality of your decisions, actions, and inactions will determine the quality of the training you impart to them.”