“My Father Is a Veteran; I Understand Your Pains” – Gabriel Aduda Appeals to Protesting Veterans

• The Permanent Secretary of Defence, Gabriel Aduda, assured protesting veterans their entitlements would be fully paid by Thursday or Friday.
• Veterans expressed frustration over delayed pension increments
• Aduda, whose father is a veteran, promised swift action and emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing their grievances.

Veterans protesting unpaid pensions were addressed by the newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, who assured them of the government’s commitment to resolving their grievances.

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Speaking at the Ministry on Monday, Aduda appealed for patience, reiterating that efforts were underway to settle their entitlements by Thursday or Friday.

The protest stems from the government’s failure to implement an approved pension increment for veterans, a decision made over a year ago.

Aduda, who assumed office just two days earlier, emphasized his personal connection to the matter. “My father is a veteran. I am part of what is going on here,” he stated, expressing empathy for their plight.

Aduda explained that 50% of the allowances had already been disbursed and promised that the remaining half would be paid within the week.

“The government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply concerned about this issue and will ensure your entitlements are fully paid,” he assured the crowd.

Despite the Permanent Secretary’s assurances, the veterans expressed dissatisfaction, voicing their frustration over prolonged delays and perceived neglect. Many of them decried the hardship and suffering endured while waiting for their dues.

The protest highlights the veterans’ growing impatience with what they perceive as systemic delays and a lack of accountability.

“We have suffered enough,” one veteran shouted, capturing the collective sentiment of the group.

This marks a significant challenge for Aduda, who succeeded Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim Kana as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence in a handover ceremony held on January 2, 2025, at the Ship House in Abuja.

Aduda’s ability to resolve this issue swiftly will likely define the early days of his tenure.

For now, the veterans remain resolute, insisting on immediate action to address their demands.

FURTHER READING

• Retired Soldiers Resume Protest Today Over Unpaid Pensions
• “The era of manipulating veterans is over”- Chief Aliyu Umar(Retired Officer)
• BREAKING: Renowned Businesswoman,Chief Mrs. Khadijah Adebisi Edionseri, ‘ Cash Madam ,’ Passes Away at 89

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