….. Assures of security, preservation of dignity
The Nigeria Police has formally addressed the ongoing discourse surrounding the planned peaceful protest by some retired police officers over pension-related grievances, particularly the call for removal from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
In a statement issued on Sunday, 20th July 2025, and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, the Force acknowledged the legitimacy of the concerns being raised while also cautioning against the politicisation of the matter.
While reaffirming the constitutional rights of all Nigerians—including retired officers—to peaceful assembly, the Force expressed concern that certain individuals and groups have chosen to exploit the genuine grievances of retirees for political or disruptive purposes. “It is disheartening to observe how certain actors have politicised a sensitive welfare issue, weaponising the legitimate grievances of our retired colleagues for ulterior motives,” the statement noted.
The police explained that the agitation for exit from the CPS is not new, as the matter has spanned over a decade with successive Inspectors-General of Police engaging relevant stakeholders and providing institutional backing. However, the Force clarified that the final resolution of the matter lies beyond its jurisdiction due to entrenched legal and fiscal constraints.
“Exiting the CPS lies beyond the remit of any Inspector-General,” the statement read, adding that the issue is “deeply woven into a web of statutory mandates, inter-agency protocols, and policy inertia.”
The Police further revealed that current leadership is pursuing a two-pronged strategy: supporting the broader advocacy in principle while implementing immediate interventions to address retirees’ concerns. Among these steps are plans to use internally generated revenue to support supplementary pension schemes and mobilise private sector support for targeted enhancements.
The Force assured that these initiatives are already in progress and that the Federal Government has been adequately sensitised. “Appropriate responses are being awaited,” the statement added.
Importantly, the Inspector-General of Police has directed all Commissioners of Police to ensure that the protest—scheduled for Monday, 21st July 2025, in the Federal Capital Territory and other notified State Commands—is conducted peacefully and with full security coverage. Officers have also been instructed to prevent any hijack of the protest by non-retired agitators or miscreants and to uphold the dignity of retired officers during the demonstration.
The Inspector-General described the protest as potentially “the mother of all peaceful protests” and charged officers to ensure it becomes a national model for dignified expression and responsible public order management. “We must show, by conduct and command, that the Nigeria Police Force is both professional and humane,” he stated.
While warning serving officers against being misled by disruptive elements, the IGP called on all personnel to uphold institutional values with wisdom, restraint, and respect for those who served before them.
