The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has addressed the disruption that occurred during the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) 2025 budget presentation to the Joint Committees on Police Affairs and Police Institutions at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, on January 16, 2025.
In a statement issued signed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, the IGP described the incident as unnecessary and avoidable, noting that the budget documents had been shared with all committee members prior to the session. According to him, two versions of the budget were provided: a comprehensive version and an abridged version, both containing identical figures and information. The abridged version was specifically prepared in simplified language to aid understanding.
At the start of the session, committee members unanimously agreed that the IGP should present the abridged version. However, Senator Onyekachi Nwoebonyi (Ebonyi North), who arrived late, began referencing the comprehensive version and interrupted the presentation. Despite explanations from other committee members about the prior agreement and the consistency between the versions, the senator rejected the clarifications and abruptly exited the session.
The IGP described the situation as unnecessary drama and refuted claims circulating in the media that the Police submitted two different budget proposals. He emphasized that both documents were consistent and aligned.
Highlighting the challenges facing the NPF, the IGP noted that inadequate funding, the restrictive envelope budget system, and delays in fund releases continue to hamper the Force’s modernization efforts and effective service delivery. He stressed the need for better budgetary allocations to enable the Police to meet their dynamic responsibilities.
In his closing remarks, the IGP called on Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of the Police Force as it remains committed to delivering exceptional service with professionalism and dedication.
