The Police Service Commission (PSC) has categorically denied allegations of bribery regarding the recent promotion of senior officers to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP).
In a statement issued on March 8, 2026, the Commission dismissed a recent report by Sahara Reporters alleging that senior officers paid ₦5 million each to secure their elevation.
The PSC described the publication as a reckless attempt to tarnish the image of both the Commission and the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the statement, signed by the Head of Protocol and Public Affairs, Torty Njoku Kalu, the promotion of officers from Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) to ACP followed due process and established guidelines.
The Commission emphasized its role as the statutory body responsible for the appointment, promotion, and discipline of police officers, excluding the Inspector-General of Police, and maintained that all its operations adhere strictly to Public Service Rules and transparency.
The Commission also addressed the report’s reference to the immediate past Inspector-General of Police, labeling it mischievous and designed to lend false credence to baseless claims.
It clarified that while the Inspector-General forwards recommendations based on vacancy and performance, the final approval rests solely with the Commission as a body.
To suggest that the Commission operates a pay-to-play system is an insult to the integrity of the Board Members who oversee these exercises, the statement read.
The PSC challenged Sahara Reporters to provide verifiable evidence to support its bribery claims rather than relying on hearsay. The Commission stated that the internal police wireless messages referenced in the report only confirm that promotions were approved as part of routine administrative functions and do not substantiate allegations of financial transactions.
The Commission urged the public to disregard the report and reaffirmed its commitment to merit-based promotions.
It encouraged any officer or member of the public with credible evidence of misconduct to formally petition the Commission rather than feed shocking narratives.
Furthermore, the PSC disclosed that it is currently considering legal action against Sahara Reporters for defamation and damage to the Commission’s reputation.
