IGP Explodes: Ulterior Motives Behind Retired Officers’ Protest

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has cautioned that certain individuals with hidden agendas are attempting to hijack the ongoing protest by retired police officers over pension-related grievances.

He, however, reaffirmed his commitment to engaging with the retirees directly to address their concerns. This pledge was relayed by the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, during a meeting with the protesting officers. According to him, arrangements have been made for the IGP to meet with the retirees at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

A statement issued Monday via the official (formerly Twitter) account of the Nigeria Police Force disclosed that some unscrupulous elements are discouraging the retirees from choosing dialogue, instead inciting unrest and confrontation.

Despite this, the Police Force urged the protesters to remain peaceful and law-abiding, reiterating that the IGP is open to constructive engagement aimed at a lasting resolution.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has expressed his readiness to personally address the concerns of the protesting retired police officers demanding improved retirement benefits,” the statement read.

“While arrangements are in place for a dialogue, the peaceful character of the protest is being threatened by elements with ulterior motives who are steering the movement towards confrontation and chaos. The IGP urges all genuine stakeholders among the retirees to stay calm, embrace dialogue, and support the peaceful resolution process.”

On Monday, scores of retired police officers under the Contributory Pension Scheme staged a major protest at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. The retirees, many of whom are elderly, marched from the National Assembly demanding immediate withdrawal from what they described as an “unjust and exploitative” pension scheme.