There was heightened tension in Abuja on Monday as pro-democracy activist, Omoyele Sowore, joined retired police officers in a protest demanding the immediate removal of police personnel from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and an overhaul of the welfare system for security operatives in Nigeria.
The demonstration, led by members of the Concerned Retired Police Officers and supported by civil society activists, began at the Unity Fountain and moved through the Federal Secretariat before converging at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters. The aggrieved retirees carried placards with inscriptions such as “CPS is a death sentence,” “End contributory pension now,” and “We served our country, don’t abandon us.”
Sowore, who addressed the protesters, accused the federal government of treating police retirees with neglect and disrespect. He described the CPS as exploitative and called for an urgent return to the defined benefits pension system.
“These officers risked their lives to serve Nigeria. It is shameful that in retirement, they are subjected to suffering under a fraudulent pension scheme. The government must act now,” Sowore stated.
he protest disrupted movement briefly in parts of the capital, prompting the deployment of security operatives to maintain law and order. The protesters, however, remained peaceful and insisted they would not leave until their demands were addressed.
Responding to the demonstration, the Nigeria Police Force, through its spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, acknowledged the legitimacy of the grievances raised by the retirees but warned against political interference and hijacking of the protest.
“The Force recognises the rights of all citizens to peaceful assembly. However, we urge genuine stakeholders to avoid actions that could jeopardise ongoing dialogue. We are engaging relevant authorities to ensure a fair resolution,” the statement read.
The retirees expressed frustration that despite several letters and appeals, their plight has remained unaddressed, leaving many in poverty and unable to access basic healthcare and housing.
The protest comes amid growing public criticism of the CPS, with several labour unions and retired personnel across security agencies calling for reforms. The protesters vowed to continue their peaceful agitation until their demands are met, warning that failure to act could lead to nationwide protests by retired officers.
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