Atiku Pledges Gratuity and Improved Pensions for Police Officers
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu of abandoning retired police officers to a broken pension system and pledged to restore gratuity payments and improve retirement benefits if elected president in 2027.
In a statement issued on Monday by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku said it was unacceptable that officers who risked their lives to protect Nigerians were now forced to protest at the National Pension Commission to demand better entitlements.
“If police officers who served this country must endure humiliation to demand a fair pension, what hope is there for other Nigerians who have spent their working lives in public service?” he asked.
Atiku said he was disturbed by the retirees’ protests and had directed members of his team to meet them to hear their grievances firsthand.
He faulted the administration for failing to act on the Police Exit Bill, which he said has been awaiting presidential assent since March.
The bill seeks to remove the Nigeria Police Force from the Contributory Pension Scheme.
He outlined his proposed Police Dignity Guarantee Plan, which places the welfare and retirement security of law enforcement personnel at the centre of efforts to tackle insecurity.
The plan includes prompt action on the Police Exit Bill, restoration of gratuity for police officers, and improved retirement benefits.
He also pledged to implement the Police Pension Board Bill within 30 days of assuming office.
“Insecurity cannot be defeated while those who protect the country are denied security in retirement. My Police Dignity Guarantee Plan will ensure that officers who serve Nigeria are properly supported throughout their careers and are not abandoned when they retire.”
“We will make Nigeria affordable again and restore dignity to those who have spent their lives serving it,” Atiku said.
The statement forms part of Atiku’s ongoing campaign messaging as the ADC presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
