Hundreds of retired Nigerian police officers gathered at the Force Headquarters in Abuja today, staging a significant protest demanding the payment of their overdue pensions and an overhaul of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). The demonstration, organized by the Nigerian Union of Retired Police Officers, highlights deep-seated frustrations over financial hardships and perceived systemic injustices within the pension system.
The protest, which saw participation from activists like Omoyele Sowore, was marked by chants and placards calling for better welfare and the removal of the police from the CPS. Retirees expressed dismay over receiving what they described as “peanut” pensions and gratuities, with some, like Ilyasu Aliyu, a retired officer, noting that after 35 years of service, he received only 2.5 million naira in gratuity and a monthly pension of 40,000 naira. “Wetin dat moni fit do for anybodi?” Aliyu questioned, reflecting the widespread sentiment of inadequacy.
The event was not without tension, as serving police officers attempted to disrupt the proceedings, according to reports from Sahara Reporters. Despite this, the protest remained largely peaceful, with participants carrying signs such as “Africa Alliance (RSA) Pay Us Our Pension” and “Demand from Nasarawa State Chapter: IGP, Too Must Go! Scrap the Pencom Now!!”
Systemic Issues and Mortality Concerns
The retirees’ grievances extend beyond immediate financial relief. The Union of Retired Police Officers has reported a alarming increase in mortality rates among its members, attributing this to the economic strain caused by the CPS. The scheme, managed by licensed Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and Pension Fund Custodians (PFCs), has been criticized for its failure to adequately support lower-ranking officers, while senior officials like the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and other high-ranking officers are exempt from it.
A specific point of contention is the involvement of African Alliance Insurance Plc in pension payments. Retirees have not received payments since May 2024, leading to accusations of mismanagement and corruption. Joshua, a protester from Bauchi State, shared his experience, saying, “Africa Alliance Company after almost 9 months they are paying me my pension.” This delay has exacerbated the financial difficulties faced by many retirees, prompting calls for accountability and reform.
Government and Institutional Responses
The Police Service Commission (PSC) and other bodies have responded to the planned protest with mixed reactions. The PSC described the action as “ill-timed,” asserting that the issue was already under consideration. However, the Nigerian Union of Retired Police Officers, led by figures like Mannir Lawal, remains resolute, having previously protested at the National Assembly without satisfactory resolution.
The protest coincides with broader discussions on police welfare, triggered by a viral video of a retired Superintendent of Police lamenting his pension after 35 years of service. This has fueled a national conversation about the treatment of law enforcement officers post-retirement, especially in light of recent clashes between police and citizens during anti-government protests, which resulted in reported deaths.
Looking forward as the protest continues, the retirees are calling for immediate action from the government to address their demands, including the establishment of a Police Pension Board and the cessation of what they perceive as cheating within the current system. The involvement of high-profile activists and the media coverage, including live reports by BBC News Pidgin, have amplified their voices, putting pressure on policymakers to respond.
This protest could set a precedent for how pension disputes are handled in Nigeria, potentially influencing future policies and the welfare of other public sector retirees.
