Retired police officers were noticeably absent from protest grounds in Oyo and Abia states on Monday, during a nationwide demonstration organized to demand improved welfare and removal from the Contributory Pension Scheme.

 

In Oyo State, members of the Take-It-Back Movement staged a peaceful protest at the entrance of the state police command headquarters in Eleyele, Ibadan, in response to a national directive calling for solidarity with retired police personnel. However, no retirees participated in the protest.

 

State coordinator of the movement, Solomon Eniola, expressed disappointment at the poor treatment and unpaid entitlements of former officers who served the nation.

“We are displeased over the non-payment of pensions and poor treatment of officers who had served the nation diligently,” he said, urging the government to prioritize the welfare of retired personnel.

 

In contrast, the planned protest in Abia State did not take place. Instead, a dialogue was held last Friday between the Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, and representatives of retired officers at the command headquarters in Umuahia.

 

During the meeting, CP Isa acknowledged the retirees’ concerns and assured them that their demands, including the call to exit PENCOM, would be forwarded to the Inspector General of Police.

He cautioned against spreading unverified claims that could undermine collective progress and encouraged continuous collaboration between retirees and the Force.

 

“Abia State has continued to enjoy relative peace due to the support of the state government, sister agencies, and community stakeholders,” he noted.

 

ASP Chizoma Opara, Officer in Charge of Pension, provided clarity on pension-related issues, while leaders of the retirees — including retired ACP Chris M. Kanu and retired ACP John Ubani — expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the meeting.

“We are happy that CP Isa took time to explain issues to us,” they said, commending his approach and leadership.