Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore led protests across Nigeria demanding improved salaries and pensions for serving and retired police officers. The demonstrations began at the Force Headquarters in Abuja and extended to other locations including the National Assembly gate and cities like Jos, Kwara, Plateau, and Lagos. Protesters called for a monthly salary of ₦500,000 for police officers and pension reforms, highlighting that retired officers receive pensions ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦22,000 after 35 years of service. Many retired officers expressed frustration over poor welfare, refusing refreshments offered by authorities and demanding to meet with Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun. The IGP acknowledged the poor welfare conditions as "heartbreaking" and "morally unacceptable," while alleging a hijack plot during the peaceful protests. Following the unrest, the Nigeria Police approved promotions for over 29,000 rank-and-file officers and 4,708 inspectors. Additionally, there were internal controversies involving special promotions for IGP Egbetokun's loyalists, which delayed official announcements. Sowore also filed a statement with the police accusing them of shielding a thief caught on video stealing his AI glasses. Separately, the Nigerian Police summoned Ebonyi government officials over allegations of trafficking a newborn baby sold for ₦25 million. The protests have exposed ongoing challenges within the Nigerian Police Force related to welfare, morale, and internal governance.
Nigerian Police Summon Ebonyi Government Officials Over Trafficking Of Newborn Baby Allegedly Sold For N25million | Sahara Reporters https://t.co/JcRgbL6jil https://t.co/42eUDMlIWT
Nigerian Police Officers Urge IGP, Service Commission To Halt External Recruitment, Prioritise Qualified In-Service Personnel | Sahara Reporters https://t.co/WmAT3VBAQx https://t.co/Lvg7O0LPqG
Sowore Files Statement With Nigerian Police Over Stolen AI Glasses, Accuses Force Of Shielding Thief Caught On Video | Sahara Reporters https://t.co/ugR6pkmLAm https://t.co/eu3UUp441X