Female Police Officers Demand Apology from Sowore Over Alleged Gender-Biased Remarks

Abuja, Nigeria –  Female personnel of the Nigeria Police Force have strongly condemned what they describe as targeted and misogynistic remarks made by activist Omoyele Sowore, following the recent promotion of some female officers by the Police Service Commission.

The promotions, approved upon the recommendation of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reportedly included officers such as Bukola Yemisi Kuti and Yemisi Ademosu — individuals Sowore cited in a Facebook post, alleging favoritism and opaque processes.

In a separate interview with The PUNCH, Sowore suggested that the IGP deliberately withheld the full list of promoted officers, accusing him of secretly advancing loyalists and “sidekicks” within the Force.

In response, the Force Gender Advisor to the IGP, Aishatu Abubakar Baju, issued a statement on Wednesday expressing the deep disappointment of female officers over what they described as unfair and discriminatory attacks.

“The criticism, led by Mr. Sowore and his associates, appears to have singled out female officers while ignoring their male counterparts who were promoted under the same criteria,” the statement noted.

It emphasized that promotions in the Nigeria Police Force are strictly based on merit — either through years of dedicated service or outstanding performance — and not influenced by gender.

“Women who meet the set standards are equally entitled to recognition and advancement as their male colleagues,” Baju stated. “To suggest otherwise is not only baseless but also reflects entrenched misogyny that undermines the contributions of female officers to national security.”

The officers called for an immediate retraction of the comments and a public apology from Sowore, stressing that such remarks diminish the sacrifices and professionalism of women who risk their lives in the line of duty.

“We demand a formal public apology to the women of the Nigeria Police Force. No amount of smear campaigns or attempts at intimidation will deter us from serving with integrity, professionalism, and commitment,” the statement concluded.

By Enoch odesola/ August 13, 2025