ABUJA, NIGERIA — Retired police officers across Nigeria took to the streets in coordinated protests on Monday, demanding an end to the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and decrying the poor living conditions they face post-retirement.
Demonstrations occurred simultaneously in several states including Abuja, Edo, Plateau, Kwara, Taraba, and Cross River, with retirees voicing deep frustration over pension amounts as low as ₦14,000 to ₦22,000 monthly.
Protest in Abuja Amid Rainfall
In Abuja, despite heavy rainfall, elderly ex-police officers gathered at the National Assembly entrance. Joined by #RevolutionNow convener Omoyele Sowore, the group demanded immediate policy change, particularly the removal of the police from CPS.
Placards bore messages like:
- “We demand our full gratuity”
- “Exit CPS now”
- “Dignity for those in uniform”
Some retirees shared painful experiences:
- ASP Joshua Abdul from Bauchi lamented receiving just ₦14,000 after 35 years of service.
- Another retiree said: “I was given ₦3.6 million as my gratuity. My counterparts in other agencies went home with ₦20 million or more.”
- “I’ve not been paid pension for 9 months,” another officer revealed.
Widespread Nationwide Action
In Jos, over 300 retirees protested, dressed in black to symbolize mourning. In Ilorin, they called on President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to urgently address the ₦758 billion pension shortfall owed security agencies since June 2025.
From Benin City to Jalingo and Calabar, protesters chanted slogans and carried banners calling the CPS “deadly” and “exploitative,” urging immediate reform.
IGP Egbetokun Responds
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun met with protesters at Force Headquarters in Abuja and expressed empathy, stating:
“We all feel concerned. I’ve been engaging at the highest levels, including a recent meeting with the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to find solutions.”
Egbetokun clarified he is not opposed to the NPF’s exit from CPS, adding:
“If exiting CPS will solve the problem, I will support it. But if not, we need to find alternatives.”
He also warned retirees to be cautious of political actors who may exploit their plight.
Conclusion
The nationwide protests by retired police officers highlight a growing crisis in Nigeria’s pension system for security personnel. With continued outcry and mounting public support, pressure is building on the federal government to deliver real reform—especially regarding the removal of the Nigeria Police Force from the CPS and ensuring officers retire with dignity after decades of service.
