Widespread outrage is brewing within the Nigeria Police Force and among members of the public following the rapid promotion of Bukola Kuti, alleged to be the mistress of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.
Sources within the Force have expressed deep dissatisfaction over what they describe as a "blatantly preferential" and "unjustified" elevation of Kuti, who reportedly rose to the prestigious rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) just 10 years after joining the service — a feat considered highly unusual in the notoriously hierarchical and competitive Nigerian police structure.
Allegations of Favoritism and Abuse of Office
“This is a slap in the face of thousands of hardworking officers who have put in their time and service under difficult conditions,” one senior officer, speaking under anonymity, told 9JASCOOP. “This kind of blatant favoritism only fuels resentment and undermines morale across the Force.”
Public Backlash and Silence from Authorities
The controversy has sparked reactions on social media and among civil society organizations, many of whom are calling for a probe into the promotion process and demanding transparency in police appointments.
So far, neither the IGP nor the Police Service Commission has issued an official statement regarding the allegations.
A System in Crisis?
This incident is the latest in a string of controversies that have rocked the police force in recent months, once again bringing to light issues of corruption, abuse of office, and a lack of accountability in Nigeria's law enforcement institutions.
While the alleged relationship between IGP Egbetokun and Bukola Kuti remains unconfirmed, the optics of such a meteoric promotion — absent clear and compelling justification — continue to fuel public outrage.
As Nigerians await official clarification, the question remains: Is the Nigeria Police Force truly committed to professionalism and meritocracy, or is it still trapped in the web of favoritism and power abuse?
Insiders allege that Kuti’s swift climb through the ranks has less to do with merit and more to do with her alleged personal relationship with the police chief. While some top officers spend decades without achieving such advancement, Kuti’s record-breaking rise has raised serious questions about fairness, professionalism, and the integrity of the Police Service Commission.