Sowore Leads Protest at Force Headquarters Over Poor Police Welfare, Pensions

By Rejoice Peterside,

 Human rights activist and presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, on Monday led a protest to the Force Headquarters in Abuja, demanding better salaries, pensions, and welfare packages for members of the Nigeria Police Force.

Chanting solidarity songs and holding placards with inscriptions such as “Decent Salaries Now,” “End Police Slavery,” “Pensions for Police Officers,” and “Dignity for Those in Uniform,” the protesters decried what they described as systemic neglect of both serving and retired police personnel.

The demonstration, which began at the Force Headquarters, was denied access into the premises but was notably peaceful. Police officers were seen providing security escorts as the group moved towards the National Assembly complex to further press home their demands.

Speaking to journalists, Sowore described the current state of police welfare as “inhumane and unacceptable,” noting that the protest was aimed at drawing national attention to the plight of officers who risk their lives daily to protect citizens.

“No nation can thrive when those entrusted with law enforcement are poorly paid, disrespected, and denied their pensions after service,” Sowore said. “This is not just about police officers. It’s about justice, dignity, and the future of law and order in Nigeria.”

The protest comes amid ongoing public debates about police reform and calls for improved conditions of service across Nigeria’s security agencies.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Nigeria Police Force or the National Assembly