Ex-Military Officers Protest at Finance Ministry Over Delayed Entitlements [Photos]

Ex-Military Officers Protest at Finance Ministry Over Delayed Entitlements [Photos]

On Tuesday, retired military personnel staged a protest in Abuja, barricading the entrance to the Ministry of Finance to demand the full payment of their outstanding entitlements.

Gists9ja reports that the demonstrators, equipped with canopies and chairs, blocked access to the ministry, disrupting its operations and forcing staff to park their vehicles outside the premises.

This demonstration marks the second protest by the retirees in recent months, following a similar action in December 2024. During the earlier protest, the ministry was also shut down over unresolved financial claims. Despite receiving official approval for payment, the Federal Government has cited insufficient funds as the reason for the delays.

Key Demands

The retirees are demanding the settlement of several outstanding payments, including:

  • A salary increment of 20% to 28% for January to November 2024.
  • Palliatives for October 2023 to November 2024.
  • A ₦32,000 pension increase.
  • A lump sum payment of the Security Debarment Allowance.
  • A refund of pension deductions for medically discharged soldiers.

Following the December protests, the Federal Government paid 50% of the outstanding entitlements and assured the retirees that the balance would be cleared. However, the retirees allege that the government has failed to fulfill this promise, prompting the renewed demonstration.

During Tuesday’s protest, the retirees effectively blocked the ministry’s gates with their makeshift setup, refusing to allow vehicles to enter. Ministry staff were forced to make alternative parking arrangements as the protesters vowed to remain until their demands were met.

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The persistent protests by retired military personnel highlight growing frustration with the government’s handling of their entitlements. The retirees continue to demand that the Federal Government honor its commitments and provide timely payment of their dues.

As the demonstration unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will address these grievances to resolve the impasse and prevent further disruptions.

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