The ex-servicemen had earlier suspended their demonstrations on August 4 following a meeting with officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance. During that meeting, government representatives assured them that all pending benefits would be settled by August 10.
However, weeks after the deadline passed without payment, the former soldiers regrouped at the Federal Ministry of Finance headquarters in the nation’s capital. They accused authorities of neglect and reneging on commitments previously made to them.
One of the protesters, popularly known as Mama G, expressed frustration at the government’s handling of the matter.
“We are here because the promises made to us were never fulfilled. We had no choice but to return to the streets. This time around, the protest will be massive,” she said.
This latest action adds to a series of demonstrations in recent years by retired soldiers across Abuja and other cities, as they continue to decry what they describe as poor treatment and disregard for their welfare.
As of the time of filing this report, the Ministry of Defence, Defence Headquarters, and the Military Pension Board have not issued any official response to the renewed protest.
