Constitutional lawyer Olayiwola Afolabi, a prominent legal expert based in Benin, has issued a passionate plea to the National Assembly, urging urgent intervention in the Bill for a law to establish the Police Pension Board. In a letter addressed to the Senate, Afolabi emphatically advocated for the removal of the police from the Contributory Pension Scheme, emphasizing the urgency and significance of this matter.
Afolabi expressed deep regret over the fate of the Bill, which, despite being passed by the immediate past eighth National Assembly, failed to secure presidential assent. He pointed out a concerning trend: most security agencies have pulled out of the contributory pension scheme, leaving only the Commissioner of Police down to the least officer in the force. This situation has raised serious concerns about the financial security and well-being of police officers post-retirement.
The constitutional lawyer underscored the transformative potential of the proposed legislation. He argued that if signed into law, the Bill would bring much-needed relief and hope to police officers who have long felt enslaved by the contributory pension scheme. According to Afolabi, the signing of the Bill into law would not merely be a legal procedure; it would represent a significant milestone towards enhancing the lives of police officers, ensuring their financial stability after years of dedicated service to the nation.
One of the crucial aspects emphasized by Afolabi is the impact this law could have on reducing corruption within the Nigeria Police Force. By providing police officers with a more secure and dependable pension system, the law could significantly boost morale and accountability within the force. Officers who know that their future is financially secure after retirement might be less susceptible to corrupt practices, enhancing the integrity of the entire law enforcement apparatus.
The constitutional expert passionately stressed that beyond being a legal necessity, this legislation represents a moral obligation to the men and women who risk their lives daily to ensure the safety and security of citizens. By ensuring a more robust and reliable pension system, the government would be recognizing the sacrifices made by police officers and acknowledging their vital role in society.
Afolabi’s appeal resonates deeply within the context of the larger debate about pension reform and the welfare of law enforcement officers in Nigeria. His call for urgent action highlights the pressing need for legislative measures to address the concerns of police officers, ensuring that they retire with dignity, financial stability, and the recognition they rightfully deserve. As the nation grapples with these critical issues, Afolabi’s voice serves as a reminder of the imperative to prioritize the well-being and security of those who dedicate their lives to keeping the public safe.