A delegation of retired senior police officers, led by DIG Maigari Dikko (rtd.), visited the Police Service Commission (PSC) on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, to request urgent intervention in addressing their poor retirement benefits and the perceived neglect of retired officers.
The delegation, comprising members of the Police College Ikeja 1986 Cadet ASP Course 14, voiced concerns about the deteriorating state of the police force. They lamented that too many active police officers are being deployed to private homes, leaving public spaces inadequately secured.
In a statement from PSC spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, the delegation highlighted significant disparities in pension entitlements: “The visitors lamented that many retired Commissioners of Police currently receive around N73,000 as monthly pensions, while their military counterparts are paid upwards of N300,000.” They warned that this disparity could pose a serious security risk if left unaddressed, noting that in many countries, pension entitlements for the military and police are aligned.
The delegation also urged the Federal Government to withdraw police officers from private homes to reinforce public security, claiming that land grabbers and private individuals misuse these officers to intimidate and harass opponents.
PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd.), who received the delegation alongside newly appointed Hon. Commissioner DIG Taiwo Lakanu (rtd.), pledged the Commission’s commitment to improving conditions for both serving and retired police officers. He assured the visiting team that the PSC would work to restore the dignity and welfare of retired officers, including exploring ways to improve their retirement benefits.
DIG Argungu further mentioned plans to engage retired officers in the PSC’s Quality Assurance Unit, allowing them to utilize their experience to enhance the management of police personnel. He encouraged the officers to take advantage of opportunities for their children to join the force through the Police Academy in Wudil, Kano, or via direct recruitment.
DIG Lakanu assured his former colleagues that they now have a new home at the PSC, stating, “We are course mates, we will remain close friends, and together, we will make this place better.” He added that the Commission would consider advocating for improved retirement benefits for retired police officers.
Other notable members of the delegation included DIG Abdulmajid Ali (rtd.), AIG U.U. Shehu Ambursa (rtd.), and AIG Alapini (rtd.).