Allegation Sparks Outrage: Gbajabiamila ‘Seeks Special Promotion’ For Officers Connected To Tinubu

The request was contained in two separate letters allegedly obtained by TheCable.

The development has sparked legal and ethical debate, as the Police Service Commission Act clearly assigns the power of promotion within the Nigeria Police Force to the PSC.

In one of the letters, Gbajabiamila reportedly asked for special consideration for officers attached to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

One of the letters, dated February 20, 2026, listed three officers, while the second included five names.

The proposed promotions reportedly include upgrading one officer from Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), while two others are to be elevated from Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP).

Gbajabiamila was quoted as stating:

“By this letter, therefore, I am recommending the promotion of the officers to their next ranks in recognition of their exemplary leadership qualities, gallantry, teamwork and general performance of their duties in their respective offices.
As I anticipate your expeditious consideration of the request, kindly accept the assurances of my highest esteem.”

Legal Concerns Over PSC Authority

The controversy stems from Section 6 of the Police Service Commission Act, which empowers the PSC with exclusive responsibility for appointments and promotions in the Nigeria Police Force, except for the Inspector-General of Police.

The Act also states that the Commission is not subject to external control in carrying out its duties, except as provided by law. However, it allows the President to issue general policy directives to the Commission under Section 19.

Claims of a Growing Pattern

The report also suggested that such interventions are not entirely new under the Tinubu administration.

In January 2025, the President’s aide-de-camp, Nurudeen Yusuf, was promoted from lieutenant colonel to colonel, and later reportedly elevated to brigadier-general through what was described as a “special presidential promotion,” following intervention from senior military officials.

A presidential source quoted in the report claimed the trend reflects increasing influence of political proximity on security promotions.

The source alleged that such practices could undermine the integrity of military and police structures and warned of growing internal tensions.

A police officer also reportedly expressed concern that preferential promotions could affect morale among personnel engaged in frontline security operations, arguing that officers facing insurgency threats often receive less recognition compared to those in privileged positions.

The officer further warned that continued politicization of promotions could weaken motivation and discipline within the security services.