Retired police officers under the Contributory Pension Scheme, CPS, have given the Federal Government, the National Pension Commission, PENCOM, and the Inspector-General of Police until October 15 to implement agreements on gratuity payments and pension increases.
The retirees threatened to stage a peaceful mass protest in Abuja on the 2nd of November, if the authorities fail to meet their demands.
The association expressed disappointment over the failure to implement commitments reportedly made during negotiations with representatives of the retired officers, despite assurances that the measures would take effect by the end of September.
It said PENCOM’s Director-General had assured the retirees that they would receive gratuities equivalent to 300 per cent of their annual emoluments and an increase in monthly pensions to 100 per cent of the applicable salary benchmark.
The retirees said the failure to implement the commitments had weakened confidence in the negotiation process and heightened concerns about their welfare.
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They noted that they had devoted their productive years to protecting lives and property, maintaining law and order, and safeguarding national security.
The association warned that the retirees’ patience and willingness to pursue dialogue should not be mistaken for weakness.
It urged the Federal Government, PENCOM and the Inspector-General of Police to take concrete steps to fulfil the agreements and provide a clear implementation plan.
The group described the planned protest as a last resort after exhausting available avenues for dialogue, stressing that the demonstration would be peaceful, lawful and orderly.
It also called on affected retirees across the country to remain united and prepare to participate in the protest if the authorities fail to meet the October 15 deadline.
NAN
