Retired officers of the Nigeria Police Force have appealed to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, to use his office to persuade President Bola Tinubu to assent to the bill seeking the withdrawal of the Nigeria Police Force from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
The retired officers described the current pension arrangement as punitive and demeaning to personnel who risked their lives protecting lives and property across the country.
The appeal was made yesterday in Abuja when members of the Association of Retired Police Officers of Nigeria paid a courtesy visit to the SGF.
Speaking on behalf of the association, the National President said the National Assembly had passed the bill seeking the exit of the Nigeria Police Force from the CPS, adding that presidential assent was the only step remaining to give the legislation the force of law.
He said retired police officers were struggling under the scheme, receiving meagre monthly stipends that could not adequately cater for themselves and their families, unlike their counterparts in the Armed Forces and other security agencies who enjoy enhanced pension benefits.
“We are passionately appealing to you as the Engine Room of this Administration to kindly use your good Offices to appeal to His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, to sign this Historic Bill into Law. It will be a Legacy that the entire Police family will never forget,” he said.
He further lamented that several retired officers had died prematurely while waiting for their entitlements, while others were battling life-threatening illnesses without the financial capacity to access adequate medical care.
The retired officers also commended Akume’s appointment as SGF, describing it as well-deserved and meritorious, as well as recognition of his decades of service to the country.
They described him as a seasoned administrator, bridge-builder and detribalised Nigerian, citing his experience as a two-term governor of Benue State, three-term senator and former minister.
“Your appointment is a Reward for Loyalty, competence and uncommon Patriotism. We have absolute Confidence in your ability to effectively coordinate the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” they stated.