Retired police officers in Plateau State on Monday staged a protest at the state police headquarters, decrying what they described as years of ill-treatment by the Nigeria Police Force and their continued inclusion in the Contributory Pension Scheme.
The protesters, who gathered in large numbers, said they were demanding justice and the restoration of their rights, which they claim have long been denied.
The protesters, comprising men and women carrying placards with different inscriptions, were dressed in black attire.
While presenting their letter of complaint to the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, the retired officers lamented that the Nigerian government had “used and dumped” them, leaving many to struggle with poverty, illness, and a loss of dignity.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the state chairman of the retirees, Ayuba Gora, said the Nigeria Police Force has shown little regard for their welfare, making it increasingly difficult for them to survive or support their families.
He said “We suppose to be senior citizens but not today again. We have become beggars. We have been trying all we could to get out of Contributory Pension Scheme but it seems our efforts is all in vain. We find it necessary to come before you.
“Most of us here are hypertensive because the force has relegated us to the background. They don’t want us anymore. They feel we should all die and we are not happy about it. How can a CSP receive N34,000? How can a retired Inspector receive N15, 000 in this present day we are passing through?
“We find it difficult to stomach these problems that we’ve been facing for years. We’re dying by the day. We’re facing numerous health challenges, including osteoarthritis, hypertension, diabetes, rheumatism, and others. Tell the high-ranking officers that enough is enough, “ the chairman said.
Responding to the protesters, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, assured the retirees that their complaints would be forwarded to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP). He added that their concerns would be given due attention and promised that their voices would not go unheard.