Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu of neglecting retired police officers, alleging that some survive on meagre pensions while serving personnel dip into their retirement savings to feed their families.
Atiku, in a statement issued on Sunday by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council, demanded an urgent review of police salaries and a decision on the Police Exit Bill, which he said had been awaiting presidential action since March.
He cited the case of a retired Assistant Superintendent of Police who reportedly receives a monthly pension of ₦29,000, while alleging that more than 120 members of the officer’s association had died in the past three years.
Atiku also recounted the case of a retired Assistant Commissioner of Police who allegedly resorted to begging in Abuja after searching unsuccessfully for work, as well as that of a retired officer in Bauchi who reportedly gathered firewood to sell for food.
He further alleged that some serving police officers had withdrawn 25 per cent of their pension savings to meet family needs amid rising food, transport and medical costs.
Describing the situation as unacceptable, Atiku called on Tinubu to explain the status of the Police Exit Bill and urged the National Assembly to publish its formal status, demand an explanation for the delay and determine the constitutional steps available.
He also demanded an urgent police salary review, particularly following the pay increase approved for members of the Armed Forces.
Atiku, who said he would implement a Police Dignity Guarantee Plan if elected president in May 2027, pledged to audit and settle verified pension arrears and gratuity claims, establish a pension floor and adjust it to reflect changes in the cost of living.
The proposed plan also includes insured healthcare for serving and retired officers, timely support for families of personnel killed in service, and home-based verification for sick or incapacitated retirees.
He promised to provide serving officers with better pay, clear records of pension contributions and entitlements before retirement, designated contacts for resolving pension disputes and reliable payment schedules.
Atiku said the programme would be backed by budgetary provisions, with payments publicly disclosed to ensure accountability.
“Those who protect this country must be able to protect their families. And when their service ends, Nigeria must keep its word to them,” he said.
