A retired officer of the Nigeria Police Force has reportedly declined a retirement benefit of ₦2 million.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has since mandated a comprehensive investigation into the assertions made by the retired Superintendent of Police in a viral video regarding the welfare and retirement benefits of police pensioners.
Naijaonpoint understands that the said retired officer served in the force for 35 years.
In a reportedly circulated video, the officer, who retired on October 1, 2023, conveyed significant frustration over what he termed a paltry payout.
He stated that the Nigeria Police Pension Board recently notified him that his total retirement benefits had been sanctioned at ₦3 million.
He explained that this sum comprises ₦1 million in arrears for the period from October 2023 to the present, along with ₦2 million as his complete terminal benefit.
In a statement released on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP instructed the NPF Pensions Limited to promptly investigate the claims, identify any potential shortcomings, and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to resolve the issues raised.
The police chief emphasised that, although efforts have been made to enhance the police pension system over the years, constructive feedback, such as that presented in the viral video, is crucial for identifying deficiencies and initiating necessary reforms.
“The IGP has ordered a thorough investigation into the allegations raised in a viral video by a retired Superintendent of Police concerning the welfare and retirement benefits of police pensioners. The IGP has tasked the NPF Pensions Limited to urgently examine the claims, identify any possible lapses, and ensure that appropriate action is taken to address the concerns raised.
“The Nigeria Police Force is not insensitive to the plight of its pensioners, many of whom dedicated their lives to the service and safety of our nation. The IGP views the welfare of both serving and retired officers as a priority and recognises that timely and adequate pension administration is crucial to sustaining morale and institutional integrity. While efforts have consistently been made to improve the pension system, the IGP acknowledges the importance of constructive feedback in prompting necessary reforms,” Adejobi stated.
The police boss assured both serving and retired officers, along with their families, of the Force’s unwavering commitment to improved welfare and a pension system that honours their years of sacrifice.
“The IGP, therefore, reassures all officers, both serving and retired, and their families of the Force’s commitment to improved welfare, and to building a system that honours their sacrifices. He urges stakeholders to remain calm and patient as the NPF Pensions carries out its investigations and engages relevant agencies to ensure lasting solutions,” Adejobi concluded.