By Jabiru Hassan
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has expressed strong support for the ongoing peaceful protest by retired police officers across Nigeria, who are demanding justice, dignity, and the payment of long-overdue entitlements from the Federal Government.
According to the CDHR, many of these retirees served the nation for decades under difficult and often dangerous conditions, yet have been shamefully neglected. Despite numerous appeals and legal actions, their legitimate demands for pension reform, gratuity payments, and healthcare benefits have been consistently ignored.
CDHR described the protests as not only justified but also indicative of the government’s failure to honor those who risked their lives to maintain peace and order.
The organization further warned that the persistent neglect of retired officers reflects a broader pattern of disregard for retirees in general, pointing to ongoing issues of delayed payments, inadequate benefits, and widespread corruption in pension administration.
“The visible suffering of these retired police officers sends a dangerous message to serving personnel and those nearing retirement,” the statement said. “It breeds hopelessness, discouragement, and a sense of betrayal, which in turn lowers morale and undermines the integrity of our security institutions.”
The CDHR called on the Federal Government, National Assembly, and relevant pension agencies to immediately address the demands of the protesting officers.
“Their dignity must be restored, their sacrifices recognized, and their entitlements paid without further delay,” the group insisted.
The CDHR concluded by stating that a government’s commitment to justice and human rights is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable citizens, including retirees. It urged comprehensive reform of the pension system to ensure all retirees live out their post-service years with dignity and peace.
