Retired police officers to resume nationwide protest over pensions September 29

Retired police officers have announced plans to resume nationwide protests on September 29, demanding an end to what they call decades of “injustice, betrayal, and slave-like pensions” under Nigeria’s Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

The announcement was made in Abuja on Monday, where dozens of retirees gathered at the Federal High Court in solidarity with activist Omoyele Sowore, who is facing charges filed by Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

The officers accused successive police chiefs of securing pension reforms to benefit only top ranks — from AIGs to IGPs — while leaving rank-and-file officers in poverty after decades of service.

“Imagine serving Nigeria for 35 years and retiring with just ₦1 million. By the time you move your belongings home, nothing is left. That is our reality,” one retiree said.

Unlike the Army, Navy, Air Force, and agencies such as the CBN which have dedicated pension boards, police officers remain under the CPS. The retirees allege that senior officers quietly secured exemptions for themselves while abandoning lower cadres.

“Our leaders betrayed us. Soldiers bargained for all their men, but police chiefs bargained only for themselves,” another lamented.

The group also expressed support for a former colleague, Ojo, who they claim is being persecuted for speaking up on behalf of serving and retired officers.

Their leader, CSP Manir Lawal (retd.), said agitation to exit the CPS began in 2014 but was derailed by police leadership misrepresenting retirees’ interests before lawmakers.

He cited cases of unpaid pensions and meagre benefits, with some officers receiving as little as ₦2.4 million gratuity and ₦30,000 monthly pensions.

Retirees have already staged protests in Abuja, Edo, Kwara, and Oyo, describing the CPS as “a killer scheme.”

On July 21, they blocked the National Assembly and Force Headquarters until IGP Egbetokun agreed to meet them.

Responding, the IGP acknowledged their plight but stressed that exiting the CPS was beyond his powers, noting that reforms could still be achieved within the scheme. He said he had met with the National Security Adviser on the issue and pledged to keep pushing for improved welfare.

The retirees, however, remain unconvinced and vowed to take to the streets again on September 29.

Quoting scripture, they warned: “Where there is no wood, the fire goeth out.”