Retired Nigerian soldiers barricaded the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja on Monday, protesting unpaid pensions, salary increments, and benefits, including the Security Debarment Allowance and palliatives.
The ex-servicemen blocked the ministry’s entrance with canopies and placards, demanding immediate payment of gratuities, pension increases, and refunds for pension deductions.
The protest follows a December 2024 demonstration where the government paid 50% of owed entitlements but failed to settle the balance.
Finance Minister Wale Edun promised to address 50% of the remaining dues and hold further talks, but the retirees, led by Retired Corporal Umar Faruq, vowed to continue until all demands are met.
The standoff, marked by heavy security presence, highlights ongoing delays in payments to military retirees, with no official statement yet from the ministry or Military Pensions Board.
