PSC rejects claims of stalled promotions for inspectors

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has dismissed claims that promotions for inspector-level officers have been “stalled” while senior officers were elevated “within three weeks,” describing such reports as misleading.

“The claim that promotions for these inspectors have been ‘stalled’ while Senior Officers were elevated ‘within three weeks’ is misleading and overlooks the distinct procedural tracks for different ranks,” the commission said. It explained that “Senior-level promotions, often involving fewer candidates and streamlined reviews, may indeed proceed more swiftly due to their operational urgency,” whereas “Inspector-Level promotions involve larger cohorts and additional layers of verification, including background checks, performance audits, and other considerations across states and commands.”

The PSC confirmed that the 2025 DSB exercise, “conducted in December 2025 as referenced in the police wireless message, was completed successfully, and processing is ongoing as per schedule.” It added: “There is no evidence of undue delay; in fact, the PSC has accelerated efforts to finalise announcements in the coming few days, aligning with fiscal and administrative cycles.”

Addressing rumours of discontent among junior officers, the commission said, “Suggestions of widespread demoralization, threats of early retirement, or erosion of Junior Officers’ confidence are speculative and not reflective of the broader sentiment within the Force.” It advised officers “to utilise established grievance procedures rather than relying on media outlets for resolution.”

The PSC, led by Chairman retired DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu and working with Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, said it remains committed to promoting fairness and career development across the force. “We have successfully promoted thousands of officers in recent years, including batches from similar cohorts, and will continue to do so without favouritism,” it added.

The commission urged the media to verify facts before publication, stating, “…media outlets to verify facts with the PSC before publishing potentially divisive stories that could undermine public trust in our institutions.”

“The PSC will not be deterred from its mandate and assures all stakeholders of continued professionalism in service delivery,” it concluded.