Retired police officers shun planned protest in Anambra, Enugu

The much-anticipated peaceful protest by members of the National Association of retired police officers over welfare issues did not hold in Anambra and Enugu States.

In Awka, Anambra State, three retired officers visited the State Police Command Headquarters on Monday, not to protest but to express their support for the ongoing reforms initiated by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, particularly in the areas of welfare and pension administration.

One of the retirees, who spoke to The Nation on condition of anonymity, confirmed that they aligned with the IGP’s reform agenda and had no intention of joining the protest.

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra, CP Ikioye Orutugu, had earlier made arrangements as directed by the IGP to ensure adequate security for any planned peaceful demonstration. However, during the visit, the three retirees clarified they were not part of any protest but were there to pledge their solidarity.

CP Orutugu welcomed the gesture, assuring the retirees that the command remains open to collaboration and values retired officers as critical stakeholders in policing.

In Enugu State, there was no sign of any protest.

A visit by The Nation correspondent to key locations, including the State Police Command Headquarters, the Police Detective College, and the Eastern House in GRA, usual gathering points for retired officers, showed no presence of demonstrators or related activity.