The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has responded to the incident that unfolded during the presentation of the 2025 Nigeria Police Force (NPF) budget to the Joint Committees on Police Affairs and Police Institutions at the National Assembly on January 16, 2025.
Describing the disruption as “unnecessary and avoidable,” the IGP clarified that both comprehensive and abridged versions of the budget were provided to committee members in advance, with an agreement to present the abridged version.
”However, distinguished Senator Onyekachi Nwoebonyi (Ebonyi North), who arrived late, began referencing the comprehensive version while the IGP presented the abridged version.
“Despite explanations from other committee members about the earlier agreement and the consistency between both versions, the senator refused to listen and abruptly left the session,” ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, said in a statement.
The IGP reiterated that the NPF did not submit two different versions of the budget, countering recent media claims.
In addition, IGP Egbetokun stressed ongoing challenges faced by the NPF, including inadequate funding, restrictive budgeting systems, and delays in fund releases, which continue to hinder the Force’s ability to fulfil its responsibilities effectively.
The IGP concluded by calling on the public to remain patient and supportive, reaffirming the NPF’s commitment to delivering high-quality service in the face of these challenges.