Esther Salifu
The call for pension reform within Nigeria’s security sector grew louder on Tuesday as wives of retired police officers joined their husbands in a protest at the National Assembly, demanding an end to years of neglect and what they described as systemic injustice under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
The women, some of whom are widows of officers killed in service, marched alongside their spouses, carrying placards that denounced the government’s handling of police welfare. They accused authorities of abandoning families who had sacrificed for national security, leaving them impoverished and without access to benefits.
“Our husbands risked their lives for this country without protective gear — no bulletproof vests, no safety,”
“Now, in retirement, they are treated like they never mattered. Some widows are even harassed when trying to claim their husbands’ entitlements.” One protester said .
The protesters described the Contributory Pension Scheme as “fraudulent,” arguing that it has worsened the plight of retirees. They called for an immediate return to the former Defined Benefits Scheme, which they said guaranteed better financial security for retired officers.
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore joined the demonstrators in solidarity, criticising the government for failing to uphold the dignity of those who served the nation.
“I’m not just fighting for retired police officers; I’m fighting with them,” Sowore told reporters. “They gave their best years to protect this country, yet live in hardship while the political class enjoys luxury. That must change.”
He urged the National Assembly to address the grievances of security retirees, warning that continued silence could fuel wider unrest among pensioners. “When citizens are pushed beyond patience, they stop praying and start acting,” he said.
The protest underscores growing frustration among retired police officers who have, for months, campaigned for exemption from the CPS a scheme they say strips them of fair benefits after decades of service.
Many participants recounted stories of unpaid gratuities, harassment during claims processing, and the emotional toll of seeing families of fallen officers languish without support.
As the demonstration ended peacefully, protesters vowed to sustain pressure on the government until tangible reforms are made. “We are not asking for charity,” We are asking for justice for those who kept this country safe.” Another protester revealed .
