Segun Awosanya, also known as Segalink, is a Nigerian realtor, human rights activist, business consultant, and member of Justice Doris Okuwobi's Panel on the #EndSars. He believes that Nigerian police officers often feel neglected and marginalised by society.
The human rights activist shared their thoughts during an interview with Reuben Abati on City FM 101.5, discussing the issue of police salary increments.
According to Awosanya, police officers often feel neglected in our society. They receive criticism for their mistakes but rarely receive recognition for their accomplishments. This is despite the fact that they face numerous challenges with limited resources, while lower-ranking military officers are exempt from taxes. In contrast, police recruits in Nigeria are required to pay taxes.It's important to bring attention to the disparity between the military's lack of pension and the fact that police officers contribute up to 12% of their salary towards their pensions.So, these are some of the issues that require attention in order for the police to feel a greater sense of belonging and care from the government.
Starting in January 2022, the Federal Government has given the green light to a 20 percent salary hike for police officers.
During the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday, President Muhammadu Buhari presided over the proceedings in the recently refurbished council chambers. Maigari Dingyadi, the Minister of Police Affairs, shared important information with the media present at the state house.
According to Dingyadi, the review is a direct response to one of the demands put forth by the #EndSARS protesters in 2020. This particular demand focuses on improving the overall wellbeing of police officers.
There are concerns among certain individuals regarding the certainty of the police salary increase being implemented.
Interestingly, the federal government has previously discussed the review of police salary structure on multiple occasions. Specifically, between 2018 and 2021, there were four instances where the government addressed the topic.
When asked about the government's commitment to implementing the salary increase, Mr. Awonsaya responded, "The increment we are discussing is not a mere promise or a gamble."It is a component of the ongoing implementation of the presidential police reform roadmap.
According to reports, police officers have allegedly been receiving a significant portion of their salary from the Nigerian government. This information is expected to be supported by testimonies from the officers themselves.