Police retirees have fixed April 20, 2026, for a nationwide protest over pension concerns. They say the action will push for better welfare and improved pension payments.
They also distanced themselves from a rival group. They insisted the group does not represent their interests.
Long-Standing Pension Grievances
The retirees are under the Nigeria Police Force Pension Scheme. They said delays and uneven pension payments remain major concerns.
Their chairman, Mannir Lawal, confirmed the protest plan. He said the agitation has lasted for more than 15 years.
Lawal described his group as the “original agitators” leading the campaign for reform.
He said internal disagreements led to the decision to mobilise independently.
Split Within Retirees’ Movement
Lawal accused a splinter group of staging a weak protest. He said the group failed to gain meaningful attention or engage lawmakers.
He also claimed the rival faction created confusion during earlier actions.
He added that his group previously held a 46-day protest after staging an earlier demonstration on October 14.
Talks With Authorities Stall
Discussions with government officials began in December, according to Lawal. However, he said the talks did not produce results.
The Inspector-General of Police later urged unity among retirees.
Lawal said members consulted across 35 states before choosing to proceed independently.
Protest Now Directed at Federal Government
Lawal said the April 20 protest gives authorities enough time to respond.
He stated that the agitation is now directed at the federal government.
He added that the group will no longer continue engagement with the Inspector-General.
He said demands will be taken directly to the President.
Concerns Over Pension System
Police retirees have continued to criticise the Contributory Pension Scheme.
Some retired officers earlier protested at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
They said the system has failed to provide adequate post-retirement welfare.
They called for timely payments and structural reforms.
Some demanded withdrawal from the scheme entirely.
Fresh Calls for Reform
Protesters said retirees deserve dignity after years of service.
One retiree said officers served for over 35 years but still suffer after retirement.
Another said they will continue pressing for their rights.
Attempts to reach the Police Pension Commission were unsuccessful.
Officials did not respond to calls or messages at the time of filing this report.
