Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of neglecting retired police officers, alleging that some are struggling to afford food, medicine and other basic necessities after years of service.
Atiku’s criticism comes amid growing demands by retired police officers for improved pensions and changes to their retirement arrangements. He has called on the Federal Government to address their concerns and clarify the status of the proposed Police Exit Bill.
ATIKU CITES ₦29,000 MONTHLY PENSION
In a statement issued on October 18, 2026, through the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku recounted the experience of a retired Assistant Superintendent of Police who reportedly receives a monthly pension of ₦29,000.
According to Atiku, the retiree questioned how anyone could meet basic living expenses on such an amount. He also claimed that the officer reported more than 120 deaths among members of his association over three years. These figures were presented as part of Atiku’s account and have not been independently established in the reports reviewed.
The former vice president also described the case of a retired female Assistant Commissioner of Police who allegedly struggled to find work after leaving the force and was later found begging at a mosque in Abuja.
Atiku said his team intervened to assist the woman but argued that individual assistance could not replace a dependable pension system. He maintained that former officers should not have to depend on chance encounters to obtain help after decades of public service.
POLICE EXIT BILL BECOMES A MAJOR POINT OF DISPUTE
Atiku has demanded an explanation for the status of the Police Exit Bill, which he says was forwarded to President Tinubu for assent in March 2026.
The proposed legislation seeks to remove police personnel from the Contributory Pension Scheme and establish a dedicated Nigeria Police Force Pension Board to manage their retirement benefits. The bill’s current formal status and the government’s position require clarification from the relevant authorities.
Citing Section 58 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, Atiku argued that the President should clarify whether the bill has been approved or withheld. He also urged the National Assembly to publish its formal status and explain the constitutional steps available.
The dispute has placed renewed attention on pension administration, legislative accountability and the responsibilities of government towards retired security personnel. However, Atiku’s criticism should be distinguished from an independent legal determination of whether any constitutional breach has occurred.
ATIKU ALSO QUESTIONS SERVING POLICE OFFICERS’ WELFARE
Beyond retirement benefits, Atiku alleged that some serving police officers have been withdrawing part of their pension savings to meet household expenses amid rising food, transport and medical costs.
He argued that officers responsible for protecting citizens should earn enough to support their families without drawing down funds intended for their retirement. He also called for a review of police salaries following a pay increase approved for members of the Armed Forces.
The allegations raise broader questions about police remuneration, pension security and the welfare of personnel who face significant risks while performing their duties.
The Federal Government and relevant police and pension authorities need to provide clear information on the concerns raised, including the reported pension amounts, outstanding obligations and the status of proposed reforms.
ATIKU UNVEILS POLICE DIGNITY GUARANTEE PLAN
Atiku has proposed a Police Dignity Guarantee Plan, which he says he would introduce if elected president in 2027.
The proposed programme includes auditing and settling verified pension arrears and gratuity claims, establishing a minimum pension benchmark, reviewing police salaries and providing healthcare coverage for serving and retired officers.
He also promised support for families of officers killed in service, home-based verification for retirees who are too ill to travel, and clearer records of pension contributions and entitlements.
Although the proposals outline possible interventions, their implementation would depend on the details of the policy, available funding, legal requirements and the outcome of the 2027 election. The campaign has said that payments under the proposed plan would be budgeted for and made publicly accountable.
WILL POLICE WELFARE RECEIVE THE ATTENTION IT DEMANDS?
Atiku’s criticism has brought the welfare of retired and serving police officers back into the political spotlight. His allegations, alongside the retirees’ reported demands for pension reform, have increased pressure on the relevant authorities to explain what action is being taken.
The central issue extends beyond political rivalry: retired officers need clarity about their entitlements, while serving personnel need sustainable conditions that allow them to support their families and prepare for retirement. OGM News NG will continue to follow developments surrounding the Police Exit Bill, pension reform and the welfare of serving and retired police officers.
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