By Anifowoshe Oladipupo
A group of Nigerian Army veterans staged a peaceful protest on Friday at the Federal Ministry of Finance headquarters in Abuja, demanding immediate payment of their outstanding entitlements.
The ex-servicemen, who voluntarily disengaged from service in late 2023 and officially retired on July 1, 2024, carried placards and banners outlining their grievances.
Their demands include full payment of gratuities, Salary Deductions Allowance (SDA), based on the new minimum wage, outstanding housing scheme contributions, and their packing allowance.
Speaking to journalists, one of the protesters described the delay as a betrayal of trust after years of loyal service.
“We have fulfilled our part by serving this country faithfully. Now, it is the government’s duty to honour its promise and pay what is due to us,” he said.
As of the time of filing this report, no official from the Ministry of Finance had addressed the protesting veterans.
The continued silence from authorities has further angered the ex-soldiers, many of whom vowed to sustain their protest until their demands are met.
The Abuja City Journal will continue to monitor and report developments on this unfolding situation.
