The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has addressed the incident that unfolded during the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) 2025 budget presentation to the Joint Committees on Police Affairs and Police Institutions at the National Assembly on January 16, 2025.
In a press statement, the IGP described the disruption as unnecessary and clarified the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Speaking in Abuja on January 17, the IGP explained that all committee members had been provided with two versions of the budget document before the session: a comprehensive version and an abridged version. Both versions contained identical figures and information, but the abridged version used simpler language for ease of understanding.
According to the IGP, the committee members had unanimously agreed at the start of the session that the abridged version would be presented, as everyone already had access to both documents. However, Senator Onyekachi Nwoebonyi (Ebonyi North), who arrived late, began referencing the comprehensive version during the presentation.
Despite repeated clarifications from other committee members about the consistency between the two versions and the prior agreement, the senator refused to listen and walked out of the session.
Describing the situation as avoidable, the IGP emphasized that there were no discrepancies between the documents and debunked reports suggesting the submission of two different budget proposals.
The IGP also highlighted critical funding challenges facing the NPF. These include insufficient budget allocations, delays in fund disbursement, and limitations imposed by the envelope budgeting system.
He noted that these challenges hinder the Force’s ability to modernize and effectively address its growing responsibilities in a dynamic security environment.
Concluding his remarks, the IGP urged the public to remain patient and cooperative with the Police as they continue to work toward improving service delivery.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to professionalism and dedication in serving the nation. We call on citizens to support our efforts as we strive to overcome these challenges,” the IGP stated.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, reiterated the IGP’s commitment to transparency and efficient resource management in the service of the nation.