Retired Nigerian Police Officers Cry Out Over ₦20,000 Monthly Pension

By Emmanuel Kwada

A retired Inspector of the Nigeria Police Force, Sambo Bello, has spoken out about the paltry benefits he received after dedicating 35 years of his life to serving Nigeria. Bello received only ₦2.2 million as gratuity and a monthly pension of ₦20,000 since his retirement in 2014.

In a distressing video, Bello recounted his long and tireless years in the police force, expressing frustration over the meager benefits. “I retired in 2014. The Nigerian police paid me a gratuity of ₦2.2 million, and since then, I have been receiving a monthly pension of ₦20,000. I have been retired for 11 years now,” he said.

Bello’s case highlights broader concerns among retired security personnel regarding inadequate pensions, delayed benefits, and the lack of a robust welfare system. Thousands of retired officers like Bello served the country wholeheartedly but are left with nothing to show for their years of sacrifice.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore condemned the Nigerian police system, describing it as “an utterly wicked system of deprivation.” Sowore noted that even a retired Commissioner of Police receives only ₦80,000 per month as pension, highlighting the stark contrast in benefits.

I retired in 2014. The Nigerian police paid me a gratuity of ₦2.2 million, and since then, I have been receiving a monthly pension of ₦20,000. I have been retired for 11 years now

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the allegations raised by a retired Superintendent of Police concerning welfare and retirement benefits.