Retired military personnel on Tuesday staged a protest at the Ministry of Finance in Abuja, blocking its entrance with canopies and chairs as they demanded the full payment of their overdue entitlements.
According to The PUNCH, this action comes on the heels of a similar demonstration in December, where the retirees shut down the ministry over delays in the settlement of their claims.
Despite official approval for payment, the former service members say they have been repeatedly told there are no funds available.
Among the arrears owed is a salary increment of 20% to 28% for the period of January to November 2024.
The retirees are also demanding additional payments, including palliatives for October 2023 to November 2024, an N32,000 pension increment, a bulk payment of the Security Debarment Allowance, and a refund of deductions from the salaries of medically discharged soldiers.
Following their December protests, the government reportedly disbursed 50% of the outstanding payments and promised to clear the balance.
However, the retirees claim the commitment has not been honored, prompting the renewed demonstration.
During the protest, the retirees effectively blocked the ministry’s entrance by erecting canopies and arranging chairs, preventing vehicles from accessing the premises.
Staff members were forced to park their cars outside and walk to work as the retirees vowed to continue their action until their demands are met.
