You’ve abandoned retired police officers, Atiku tells Tinubu

Atiku Abubakar, the candidate from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has criticized President Bola Tinubu for allegedly abandoning retired police officers and failing to address their pension issues. In a statement released by his campaign team, Atiku expressed his shock at the daily protests being held by the officers outside the National Pension Commission, demanding a fair pension for their years of service.

Atiku asserted that the government's deployment of police officers to protect the powerful but not to protect retired officers in their golden years was a shameful display of disregard for the sacrifices made by these individuals. He questioned the government's commitment to tackling insecurity, stating that if these police officers had to endure such humiliation to seek a fair pension, what hope do other Nigerians who have dedicated their lives to public service have?

The ADC candidate highlighted that his team had met with the protesting officers to listen to their concerns, and he condemned President Tinubu for not taking action on the Police Exit Bill, which had been awaiting his signature since March. Atiku lambasted the government for its "use and discard" policy towards retired police officers, including political appointees, who were left unsupported when they needed help the most.

To address the plight of retired police officers, Atiku proposed the Police Dignity Guarantee Plan, which focuses on ensuring the welfare and retirement security of law enforcement personnel. The plan includes expediting the Police Exit Bill, restoring gratuity for police officers, and implementing the Police Pension Board Bill within 30 days of his inauguration.

Atiku firmly believes that unless the government provides proper support and security in retirement, it cannot claim to be addressing the broader issue of insecurity effectively.

"Atiku reiterated that no real progress can be made in tackling insecurity while those who protect the nation are denied security in their twilight years. The Police Dignity Guarantee Plan guarantees that officers who serve Nigeria will be fairly compensated and respected both during their service and after retirement. By restoring dignity to these officers, Nigeria can once again thrive," Atiku concluded.