“We Risked Our Lives for Nigeria, Now We Survive on ₦18,000”: Outrage as Retired Police Officers Storm Abuja Over Poor Pensions

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A wave of outrage swept across social media on Monday after hundreds of retired Nigerian police officers stormed the Force Headquarters in Abuja to protest what they described as humiliating pension payments, with some saying they earn as little as ₦18,000 monthly after decades of service.

The emotional protest drew retirees from multiple states, many of whom carried placards and chanted solidarity songs while demanding urgent government intervention in what they called a “failed and unjust” pension system.

The aggrieved former officers said the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), introduced under the 2004 pension reforms, has plunged many retired police personnel into poverty, leaving them unable to afford basic necessities despite years spent risking their lives in service to the nation.

“We protected lives and property for years, but now we are abandoned,” one protester said during the demonstration.

Tension briefly rose at the entrance of the police headquarters when the retirees confronted serving officers on duty, but the protest remained peaceful as demonstrators insisted their demands be heard.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore joined the protesters and called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government to urgently address the plight of retired officers.

The protesters are demanding the immediate removal of police personnel from the CPS and the establishment of a dedicated pension board for the Nigeria Police Force, similar to arrangements in place for some other security agencies.

The retirees also urged President Tinubu to sign pending legislation that would facilitate the police exit from the pension scheme.

Monday’s protest is the latest in a growing string of demonstrations by retired police officers, reflecting mounting frustration over delayed gratuities, inadequate monthly stipends, and what many describe as systemic neglect.

Analysts warn that continued disregard for the welfare of retired officers could damage morale within the police force and undermine confidence among active personnel.

The protesters vowed to sustain pressure on the government until their demands are met.