By: Mandy Park
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed Commissioners of Police across the country to ensure the peaceful conduct of the planned protest by retired police officers demanding improved pension benefits.
This is as they are cautioned not to be misled by disruptive elements.
The protest, scheduled for Monday, July 21, 2025, (Today) is being organized by retired officers calling for the removal of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which they claim has failed to provide them with financial security and dignity in retirement.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP has instructed that adequate security be provided for the demonstrators, especially in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and other states where formal notifications have been received.
“The IGP has directed that all Commissioners of Police ensure that the protest is allowed to proceed peacefully and without interference,” the statement read. “Intelligence and operational resources should be deployed to prevent any attempt to hijack the protest by miscreants or political actors.”
The IGP also ordered police commands to educate their personnel on the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and to show respect for their retired colleagues.
While noting that several retired officers’ groups have since withdrawn their support for the protest following extensive dialogue, the IGP acknowledged the legitimacy of the concerns raised.
“This issue has lingered since 2014. Successive IGPs have engaged stakeholders and demonstrated commitment to finding a solution,” Adejobi said. “The challenges, however, lie in legal frameworks, fiscal constraints, and administrative hurdles.”
For those who still choose to participate in the protest, the police pledged full protection of their rights. “This protest, described as ‘the mother of all peaceful protests’, must remain peaceful and serve as a model for responsible civic engagement,” the statement added.
Serving officers were cautioned not to be misled by disruptive elements and were reminded to uphold institutional values with restraint, professionalism, and respect for their retired colleagues.
The police leadership emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to transparency, dialogue, and upholding the rule of law in addressing internal welfare issues.
