Retired military personnel on Tuesday, October 13, barricaded the entrance to the Military Pensions Board office in Dutse Alhaji, Abuja, demanding a review of the formula used to calculate their revised pensions.
The protesters blocked access with chairs and canopies, while armed soldiers prevented them from entering the premises.
Coordinator of the Veterans Association of Nigeria, retired Lieutenant Colonel Innocent Azubike, alleged that the computation method disadvantaged some pensioners with comparable ranks and service records who retired at different times.
The protest followed the board’s October 2 announcement that revised pension rates had taken effect following adjustments linked to the new national minimum wage, with applicable arrears processed for payment from that date.
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Despite a meeting with veterans’ representatives on October 9 and subsequent discussions with the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission on October 12, some retirees remain dissatisfied with the calculations.
The demonstration follows earlier protests at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja over demands for pension increases corresponding to salary adjustments for serving military personnel.
The veterans are seeking a review of the formula, clarification of the calculation guidelines and correction of any payment errors.
Meanwhile, the Coalition of Concerned Veterans has threatened another protest on Thursday, October 15, demanding an audit of affected payments and settlement of outstanding entitlements.
The dispute continues to raise concerns over the fairness and implementation of pension adjustments for retired service personnel.
