Amid growing frustration over poor salaries and welfare within the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has reportedly ordered the demotion of six police officers allegedly involved in organising a planned protest against the institution’s deteriorating conditions.
According to sources who spoke to SaharaReporters, the officers—led by Emoruwa Olabode—were administrators of a WhatsApp group used to mobilise fellow personnel in protest over stagnating wages, inadequate welfare, and dissatisfaction with the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). The group had reportedly been gaining traction in recent weeks, sparking concerns within the Force’s leadership.
Though the protest did not ultimately take place, the Police High Command was said to have acted swiftly, detaining the implicated officers and recommending disciplinary measures. The IGP allegedly approved their demotion as punishment for attempting to incite internal dissent and violate service regulations.
The development has sent ripples through the force, where many rank-and-file officers share the sentiments expressed in the planned protest. For years, personnel have raised concerns about the low salary structure, lack of basic benefits, poor housing conditions, and an opaque pension system that many believe leaves retired officers impoverished.
“The demotion of these officers will not fix the problem,” said one officer who requested anonymity. “We are overworked, underpaid, and forgotten. Punishing our colleagues for speaking up only deepens the anger.”
The Contributory Pension Scheme, which replaced the traditional pension model, has faced stiff resistance from security personnel across the country. Many believe it is unsuitable for police officers given the risky nature of their work, and have demanded to be exempted, arguing that the system offers little in terms of post-service security.
Human rights groups and public commentators have also expressed concern over the IGP’s response, noting that while discipline is crucial in a uniformed service, legitimate grievances should not be met with intimidation or suppression.
“This situation reflects a much deeper institutional problem,” said a Lagos-based security analyst. “These officers were raising issues that are widely acknowledged. Silencing them may bring temporary order but risks long-term instability within the force.”
As of the time of this report, the Nigeria Police Force has not released an official statement confirming the disciplinary action or detailing the charges against the officers.
The incident comes at a time when national attention is focused on insecurity, police reform, and the urgent need to improve the working and living conditions of security personnel. Many are now calling for the federal government and police leadership to address the root causes of dissatisfaction within the force rather than resorting solely to punitive measures.
For the affected officers, the demotion may be immediate—but for the wider force, the tension remains. Unless meaningful reforms are undertaken, the growing frustration may resurface in other forms.
