Military veterans across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones are mobilizing for a coordinated nationwide protest over delays in implementing a reported presidential approval to change leadership at the Military Pensions Board.
The veterans say their action is in response to the continued stay in office of MPB Chairman Mikail Abdulraheem, despite a Federal High Court ruling in March ordering the final forfeiture of ₦400 million allegedly linked to him.
The March 17 judgment was delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
“What further action are the authorities waiting for? Is the decision of a competent court not part of the legal and institutional framework of government?” one veteran source asked, speaking anonymously. The source warned that the disconnect between judicial rulings and administrative action could erode public trust in accountability systems.
The veterans also raised concerns over the delay in enforcing what they say is President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the appointment of retired officer Sadeeq Adamu as the board’s new chairman.
The absence of a clear timeline or official statement has created uncertainty among retirees who depend on the board for pension .
Adding to the tension are unverified claims that some veterans’ leaders were offered financial inducements to downplay the court ruling. Several veterans have denied the allegations and called for transparency.
A retired colonel, who also requested anonymity, said he was offered ₦1 million to remain silent but refused. “Integrity must remain central to any institution managing pension funds,” he said.
Vet Cyril Oke said the agitation is not aimed at individuals but at restoring credibility to the system.
“A veteran-led MPB, operating independently and guided by strong corporate governance principles, would be better positioned to address longstanding challenges and rebuild trust,” he said.
UK sanctions target Russian drone supply chains, migrant exploitation networks
Vets Michael Frima and Danjuma Mamman stressed that any planned protest will be peaceful and lawful.
“Our objective is to draw attention to the urgent need for reform and to ensure that the President’s directive is implemented without further delay,” Mamman said. “When a court has spoken, and when an approval has been granted, there must be clarity and action.”
The veterans added that external advocacy groups defending the current leadership have no direct ties to the community and should not speak on their behalf. [Adapted Nigerian Tribune report]
Stay ahead with the latest updates! Join The ConclaveNG on WhatsApp and Telegram for real-time news alerts, breaking stories, and exclusive content delivered straight to your phone. Don’t miss a headline — subscribe now!
