Retired police officers marched through Abuja on Monday, demanding urgent action on their pension and welfare concerns.
The protest began at the National Assembly and ended at the Force Headquarters, drawing national attention.
Elderly former officers carried placards, chanted slogans, and called for their removal from the Contributory Pension Scheme.
They described the scheme as unjust, claiming it leaves them with meagre benefits and an uncertain future.
Several retired officers said they served for decades but now live in poverty because of the current pension system.
Some described the monthly stipends as too small to afford basic food, rent, or medication.
Others said they could no longer care for their families or afford transport to medical appointments.
Their grievances focused on exclusion, suffering, and neglect after years of risking their lives in service.
They want to return to the Defined Benefit Scheme, which they believe offers better post-service security.
After leaving the National Assembly gates, the protest moved to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
There, the retirees demanded an audience with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
Egbetokun responded swiftly, coming out to address the protesting officers directly.
He praised their service, acknowledged their pain, and promised urgent action on their demands.
The IGP said the Nigeria Police Force is actively working to resolve pension challenges facing retired personnel.
He stressed that the police leadership values every officer, both serving and retired, and will fight for fairness.
Egbetokun assured the retirees that conversations are ongoing with lawmakers and the National Pension Commission.
He said the Force is exploring all legal options to push for an improved and sustainable pension framework.
The IGP also appealed for calm and patience, promising that their voices have not gone unheard.
Retired officers, however, urged the government to move beyond words and deliver real policy changes soon.
Many expressed hope in the IGP’s commitment but said delays have already caused enough suffering.
They called for a timeline and clear steps toward resolving their pension-related grievances.
The protest ended peacefully, but emotions ran high among the crowd of retired law enforcement officers.
Some hugged one another, relieved their struggle is finally getting national attention.
Others said they would keep speaking out until their demands are met with concrete reform.
The Contributory Pension Scheme has long drawn criticism from public servants, especially within the security sector.
Police officers argue their service is too risky to rely on uncertain pension structures after retirement.
The Defined Benefit Scheme, phased out for most, provided a fixed amount and clearer expectations.
Security experts say pension uncertainty could affect morale among serving officers too.
A system that fails veterans, they argue, discourages future commitment and loyalty.
The Nigeria Police Force has not released a reform timeline, but pressure is mounting fast.
With protests reaching top institutions, policymakers now face urgent questions about protecting those who once protected them.
For now, retired officers wait, hoping their years of service will be matched with justice and care.
