ADC Presidential Candidate Demands Action on Police Pension Bill, Calls for Salary Review and Better Welfare for Serving Officers
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over what he described as the neglect of retired police officers, calling for urgent action on their pensions and improved welfare for serving personnel.
Atiku made the remarks in a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communications of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council. He urged the Federal Government to address the financial difficulties reportedly facing retired officers and review the salaries of serving police personnel.
The former vice president said some retired officers were struggling to afford basic necessities despite spending years serving the country. He cited the case of a retired Assistant Superintendent of Police who reportedly receives a monthly pension of ₦29,000.
Atiku also recounted other cases of retired officers allegedly struggling to secure food, healthcare and other basic needs, describing their circumstances as a matter requiring urgent government attention.
He further alleged that some serving police officers had resorted to withdrawing portions of their pension savings to support their families amid rising living costs.
Atiku Seeks Action on Police Exit Bill
Atiku called on President Tinubu to clarify the status of the Police Exit Bill, which seeks to remove police personnel from the Contributory Pension Scheme and establish a dedicated Nigeria Police Force Pension Board.
According to the statement, the National Assembly passed the bill earlier in the year and transmitted it to the President for assent in March.
Atiku referenced Section 58 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which provides a 30-day period for presidential assent or withholding of assent to a bill presented by the National Assembly.
He urged the National Assembly to publicly disclose the bill’s status and explain the constitutional steps available to resolve the matter.
The ADC candidate maintained that officers who had spent decades enforcing the nation’s laws should not have to struggle for the pensions and benefits they earned through service.
Promises Police Welfare Reforms
Atiku also outlined his proposed Police Dignity Guarantee Plan, which he said he would implement if elected president in May 2027.
The proposed plan includes auditing and settling verified pension arrears and gratuity claims, establishing a minimum pension level that reflects changes in the cost of living, and providing insured healthcare for serving and retired officers.
He also promised to review police salaries, improve support for families of officers who die in service, and establish clearer procedures for pension verification and payment.
Atiku said the proposed reforms would be backed by budgetary provisions and public reporting on payments made.
His remarks come amid ongoing discussions about police welfare, pension administration and the need to improve the working conditions of security personnel in Nigeria.
