Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has addressed the controversy surrounding the police’s 2025 budget presentation at the National Assembly. In a statement issued on Friday, Egbetokun explained that the police did not submit two different budgetary proposals, contrary to circulating reports.
Instead, two versions of the budget documents were provided: a comprehensive copy and an abridged version. Both documents contained the same figures and facts, but the abridged version used simpler language for easier understanding.
Egbetokun described the incident at the National Assembly as “unfortunate and avoidable.” He clarified that the document he presented was shared with all committee members beforehand, and that the committee had unanimously agreed to use the abridged version.
However, Senator Onyekachi Nwoebonyi, who arrived late, began referencing the comprehensive version, causing confusion. Despite explanations from other committee members, the senator refused to listen and left the session.
Egbetokun reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force faces significant challenges with budget allocations, including inadequate funding, restrictive envelope budget systems, and delays in fund releases. He called on the public to remain patient and supportive of the police as they work to deliver exceptional service with professionalism and dedication.
