By Omoniyi David
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a thorough investigation into a viral video in which a retired Superintendent of Police decried the welfare and retirement benefits of police pensioners.
The retired officer, who served for 35 years and retired on October 1, 2023, reportedly rejected a retirement benefit of ₦2 million. In the video, he expressed deep frustration over what he described as an inadequate payout.
According to him, the Nigeria Police Pension Board recently informed him that his total retirement benefits had been approved at ₦3 million – ₦1 million in arrears covering October 2023 to date, and ₦2 million as his full terminal benefit.
In a statement on Thursday, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the IGP has directed the NPF Pensions Limited to urgently examine the claims, identify any lapses, and take appropriate action to address the concerns raised.
The IGP emphasized that while reforms have been made to improve the police pension system, constructive feedback such as that in the viral video is vital to identifying gaps and driving further improvements.
“The Nigeria Police Force is not insensitive to the plight of its pensioners, many of whom dedicated their lives to the service and safety of our nation,” the statement read. “The IGP views the welfare of both serving and retired officers as a top priority and recognizes that timely and adequate pension administration is key to maintaining morale and institutional integrity.”
Egbetokun reassured both serving and retired officers, as well as their families, of the Force’s unwavering commitment to improved welfare and a pension system that honours their years of sacrifice.
He also urged stakeholders to remain calm and patient as the NPF Pensions Limited carries out its investigation and engages relevant agencies to ensure a lasting solution.
