CDHR Backs Retired Police Officers’ Protest, Urges Prompt Action On The Plights Of Retirees

The Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR) lends its unequivocal support to the ongoing peaceful protest by retired police officers across Nigeria, who have taken to the streets to demand justice, dignity, and long-overdue entitlements from the Federal Government. 

CDHR in a statement signed by its President, Comrade Debo Adeniran, said these retired officers, many of whom gave decades of dedicated service to the nation under difficult and often dangerous conditions, have been shamefully neglected for too long. Despite repeated appeals and legal efforts, their legitimate demands for pension reform, gratuity payments, and healthcare benefits have consistently fallen on deaf ears. Their protests are not only justified, they are a sad reflection of the government’s failure to honor those who once risked their lives to secure peace and order in our communities. 

The statement states ; “The CDHR is deeply concerned that the government’s persistent neglect of these retired officers mirrors a broader pattern of disregard for the welfare of retirees in Nigeria. Pensioners across various sectors continue to suffer delays, inadequate benefits, and systemic corruption in pension administration, issues that must be addressed with urgency and sincerity. 

“Furthermore, this protest has far-reaching implications for national morale. The visible suffering and frustration of retired police officers send a dangerous signal to serving personnel and to others nearing retirement. It breeds hopelessness, discouragement, and a sense of betrayal among those currently in service. When officers see their predecessors treated with such disregard, it diminishes commitment, lowers morale, and ultimately undermines the integrity of our security institutions. 

“We call on the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and relevant pension agencies to take immediate action to address the demands of the protesting retired police officers. Their dignity must be restored, their sacrifices recognized, and their entitlements fully paid without further delay. 

“The Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR) reiterates that the measure of any government’s commitment to justice and human rights is reflected in how it treats its most vulnerable citizens, including the aged and retired.

“We demand a comprehensive reform of the pension system and sustained efforts to ensure that all retirees live out their post-service years in dignity and peace,” the statement read.