Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has addressed the controversy surrounding the submission of two versions of the 2025 budget to the National Assembly.
Egbetokun admitted to submitting two versions of the budget, but explained that the two documents were not different budgetary proposals, but rather a comprehensive copy and an abridged version containing the same figures and facts.
The abridged version was presented to facilitate easier understanding, using simpler language.
Egbetokun clarified that the document was shared with all committee members beforehand, and they had unanimously agreed to present the abridged version.
However, an incident occurred during the presentation when Senator Onyekachi Nwoebonyi (Ebonyi North) arrived late and began referencing the comprehensive version, despite explanations from other committee members about the earlier agreement.
The senator’s refusal to listen led to an unnecessary drama that could have been avoided.
Egbetokun emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force faces significant challenges with budget allocations, including inadequate funding, restrictive envelope budget systems, and delays in fund releases.
These challenges impede the Force’s ability to address its expanding and dynamic responsibilities.
