Abuja, Nigeria — Tensions escalated on Tuesday as retired military personnel took their grievances to the Ministry of Finance, barricading its entrance with canopies and chairs to demand the full payment of their long-overdue entitlements.

The retirees, who have grown increasingly frustrated with delays, claim they are owed salary increments ranging from 20% to 28% for January to November 2024, alongside other benefits. These include palliatives for October 2023 to November 2024, an additional N32,000 pension increase, bulk payment of the Security Debarment Allowance, and refunds for pension deductions from medically discharged soldiers’ salaries.

This protest mirrors a similar action in December, during which the ministry was shut down over the government’s failure to settle the retirees’ claims. Although the Federal Government responded by paying 50% of the entitlements and promising to clear the balance, the retirees allege the government has not fulfilled its promise.

“We’ve been told repeatedly that there are no funds, even though payment approval has been issued,” a spokesperson for the group lamented.

On Tuesday morning, the entrance to the Finance Ministry in Abuja was effectively sealed off. Retirees erected canopies and placed chairs to block access, forcing staff to park outside the premises.

The protests are part of a larger call for accountability and justice for retired soldiers who have served the nation. The lack of resolution has left many retirees struggling financially while losing faith in government commitments.

Public Sympathy Grows

Photos from the scene show a determined group of retirees braving the elements to press their demands. Public sympathy for their plight appears to be mounting, with many calling on the government to prioritize the welfare of those who have served in the armed forces.

With no resolution in sight, the retirees’ actions signal the possibility of continued disruptions, as they vow not to back down until their demands are fully met.