Security Beefed Up At Defence Ministry As Retired Military Officers Protest

Security has been heightened around the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja as retired military personnel protest over the non-implementation of consequential adjustments to their pensions.

The veterans, led by retired Colonel Azubuike Nas, are demanding adjustments to their pensions following the recent salary increase approved for serving members of the Armed Forces by President Bola Tinubu.

The retirees argue that the salary review should have corresponding implications for their pensions, particularly given their years of service to the country.

President Tinubu recently approved a new salary structure for serving military personnel as part of efforts to improve their welfare and strengthen their effectiveness in ongoing security operations.

The move has heightened concerns among retired officers, who say they have not benefited from the recent salary adjustments approved for serving military personnel.

Ahead of the planned demonstration, security personnel were deployed around the Ministry of Defence complex, with armed police officers and soldiers reportedly preventing the protesters from gathering at the main entrance.

Several Armoured Personnel Carriers were also sighted around the area as security agencies moved to control access to the ministry and maintain order.

The heavy deployment affected traffic around parts of Abuja, with motorists experiencing congestion on roads leading to the ministry.

The protest reflects growing concerns among military pensioners over delayed pension adjustments and disparities between the earnings of serving personnel and retired officers.

The veterans are calling on the Federal Government to address their demands and implement the necessary adjustments to their pensions.

The demonstration also comes amid broader efforts to review the welfare and remuneration of military personnel, both serving and retired, following changes to the Armed Forces salary structure.

The retirees maintain that their contributions and years of service should be recognised through appropriate pension adjustments.