Thousands of retired police officers staged nationwide protests on July 21 against the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), decrying its implementation as unjust and exploitative.
Thousands of retired police officers staged nationwide protests on July 21 against the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), decrying its implementation as unjust and exploitative. In Abuja, the protesters defied heavy rain to occupy entrances to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters and the National Assembly, bearing placards with messages like “Pay police a living wage and proper pensions.”
Despite efforts by serving officers to disperse them, the protest continued peacefully, prompting authorities to deploy police escorts to maintain order. Retirees said they’ve been “neglected for too long,” with many claiming that CPS payments fall far below expectations.
“This scheme has impoverished us,” said retired CSP Manir Lawal. “It is our right to demand better.”
ACP Aliyu Sisa Lukman added, “I retired after 35 years of service and all I got is peanuts.”
Meanwhile, PenCom said it had received no formal complaints but urged retirees to present concerns officially. The CPS has drawn criticism for excluding military and intelligence agencies while leaving police in, fueling calls for reform or exemption.