By Sunday Apah
On Monday, a group of retired police officers held a protest at the entrance of the National Assembly in Abuja, braving the rain to voice their grievances.
The protesters are calling for their release from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which they claim is detrimental to their wellbeing.
Comprising mainly older ex-police personnel, the group displayed placards and sang solidarity songs while enduring the wet weather, emphasizing that their welfare and dignity have been overlooked for far too long.
During the demonstration, retired Chief Superintendent of Police Manir Lawal urged the government to withdraw police retirees from the pension scheme, labeling it exploitative and unfair.
“We are gathered here to demand that the government remove us from the CPS. This pension scheme has been both exploitative and unjust,” he stated. “At 67 years old, I, along with many others who are in their 60s and 70s, have served this nation loyally and believe we deserve to retire with dignity. This scheme has left us in poverty. It is our right to advocate for better conditions.”
Despite the inclement weather, the retirees remained resolute, declaring they would not disperse until their concerns were heard by the leaders of the National Assembly.
Security personnel were present to monitor the situation and ensure no disruptions occurred.
