The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an investigation following the public outcry raised by a retired police officer who rejected a pension payment of N2 million after over 35 years of service.
The retired officer, identified as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Daniel Dabit, made headlines after a video surfaced showing him tearfully expressing disappointment over the amount he received as his retirement benefit. Dabit, who served the Nigeria Police Force for more than three decades, described the payment as a disgrace and an insult to his long service to the nation.
The video quickly gained traction on social media, sparking widespread criticism of the treatment of police retirees and the country’s pension system. In the footage, Dabit held up the payment slip, visibly emotional, stating that after dedicating most of his life to serving the country, he expected a more substantial compensation.
Reacting to the incident, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed in a statement that the Inspector-General had taken immediate interest in the matter and directed the appropriate authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the officer’s claims and the circumstances surrounding the payment.
According to the police spokesperson, the IG’s directive is aimed at addressing the concerns raised not only by Dabit but also by other retirees who might be facing similar issues. Adejobi said the welfare of officers, both serving and retired, remains a priority for the police leadership under Egbetokun.
The statement emphasized that the Force Headquarters is already engaging with the Pension Commission and relevant stakeholders to determine if there were any discrepancies in Dabit’s entitlements or if the payment was consistent with the regulations governing police pensions. The Inspector-General also called for a wider review of the pension administration system within the force to ensure fairness, transparency, and respect for long-serving personnel.
The case has reignited discussions about the overall treatment of retirees in Nigeria, particularly those in the security sector. Many Nigerians, including civil society groups and former officers, have criticized what they describe as a broken pension system that fails to reward public servants adequately after retirement.
Dabit’s situation has drawn sympathy from the public, with many users on social media demanding reforms in how pensions are calculated and disbursed. Critics argue that a payment of N2 million is inadequate for someone who has spent over 35 years in active service, especially considering inflation and the cost of living in Nigeria.
In response to the public backlash, some police authorities have stated that the pension payouts are calculated based on existing laws and salary structures, and that reforms would require legislative amendments and policy reviews at the federal level. However, that has not quelled public anger, as many believe the government has failed to honor the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers.
The Inspector-General’s decision to order an investigation is seen as an attempt to calm tensions and reassure both serving and retired officers of the Force’s commitment to their welfare. It also highlights the growing pressure on Nigerian authorities to address the systemic challenges facing pension administration.
As the investigation begins, many Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the outcome will lead to any substantive changes in how police pensions are handled, or whether it will be another episode of public outcry with no long-term solution. The police leadership has not yet given a specific timeline for when the findings of the investigation will be released.
Meanwhile, Dabit’s case continues to resonate with many retirees across the country, who see in his experience a reflection of their own struggles with a pension system that often leaves them financially vulnerable after years of national service.
