Personnel to get N5 million in event of death, disability
Lagos State government on Friday announced a 150 per cent upward review of compensation for men of the Nigerian Police Force in the event of death or permanent disability.
The review, an initiative of governor Akinwunmi Ambode upon assumption of office, will henceforth make the policemen in the state entitle to the sum of N5m to N2, depending on their rank at the time of permanent disability or death.
Ambode, during a visit to the Police Force Command Headquarters, Ikeja, said the review was in respect of the delicate nature of their job and as a motivation for the task ahead.
Addressing the officers, led by the Commissioner of Police, Kayode Aderanti, the governor said: “From records that the police had held sway in providing security and guaranteeing the safety of lives and properties in the state and it is most appropriate that I express my heartfelt appreciation to all of you individually and collectively.”
He noted the Federal Government, through the Contributory Pensions Act, has made provisions to insure the lives of all Police Officers. In addition, the immediate past administration of Babatunde Fashola (SAN) has subscribed to an additional Group Life Scheme to complement the FG’s policy.
Both efforts saw to the approval of insurance compensation of N2 million for Senior Police Officers, N1.5 million for Inspectors and N1 million for the rank and file.
Ambode said given that the compensation scheme, which covers death and disability, is almost 16 years old, all would agree that the compensation value is already inadequate.
To this effect, he said: “In fulfillment of our resolve to sustain, improve and consolidate on past attainment, I am pleased to announce the upward review of the compensation value as follows: Senior Police Officers, N5 million; Inspectors, N3 million; rank and file, N2 million.”
In return, he sought the support and cooperation of the police in facilitating the strict enforcement of the Lagos State Law on Protection Against Violence (2007) as well as the Criminal Laws of Lagos (2011) that deal with issues of domestic violence against women and rape.
“By doing that, we will be sending a strong signal of zero tolerance to such barbaric acts and also conveying a message of assurance to our women of our commitment to their protection.
“I consider it compelling to again seek your robust partnership and collaboration as we advance the cause for a safe and secure Lagos State.
As 21st Century Police Officers, you are expected to scale up your skills and professional conduct in a manner that the citizens will see you as true friends who will not compromise integrity and forthrightness.
On our part, we assure you that we shall always put your concerns and constraints on the front burner,” he said. Aderanti had earlier commended Ambode’s predecessor, Fashola for his commitment to the course of the police, even as he assured the new administration of their support.
