(DDM) – The Defence Headquarters has cautioned retired soldiers protesting at the Ministry of Finance in Abuja to vacate the premises immediately.
The protest, which gathered momentum this week, saw veterans demanding payment of the Security Debarment Allowance, commonly known as SDA.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the ex-servicemen allege that the allowance has either been delayed, underpaid, or unfairly calculated.
Witnesses confirmed that the protest disrupted activities around the Ministry, drawing attention from both security operatives and concerned citizens.
Military spokesman, Major General Markus Kangye, issued a statement addressing the growing agitation and clarifying the government’s position.
He explained that the allowance is computed based on the salary structure applicable at the time of each soldier’s retirement.
According to him, retired officers who left service decades ago cannot demand payments calculated with modern wage charts.
Kangye described such claims as a “policy misinterpretation,” insisting that the agitation was built on a misunderstanding of the rules.
The Defence Headquarters emphasized that while the government values the sacrifices of veterans, protests at sensitive locations are unacceptable.
Authorities stressed that unauthorized demonstrations could be disruptive to national institutions and may undermine efforts to resolve grievances peacefully.
The military urged the protesting veterans to pursue lawful channels for addressing their complaints instead of resorting to public blockades.
Kangye assured that the government remains open to structured engagement with veterans to resolve outstanding issues.
He further appealed for patience, noting that dialogue remains the only sustainable path for resolving sensitive financial entitlements.
Observers note that disputes over military welfare and allowances have been recurring for years, often fueling protests in Abuja.
Veterans argue that their contributions to national security entitle them to better recognition and adequate compensation in retirement.
Civil society groups warn that dismissing their grievances outright could deepen frustrations among retired personnel.
Security analysts point out that retired soldiers remain an influential group, and their welfare has implications for military morale.
In recent years, veterans have repeatedly staged demonstrations, sometimes camping for days to press home their demands.
This week’s protest reignites public debate about transparency in the management of military pensions and allowances.
As the standoff continues, both sides face pressure to find a compromise that balances policy limitations with human concerns.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated its appeal for calm, pledging that genuine claims will be addressed within official frameworks.
For now, Abuja remains tense as authorities monitor the veterans’ protest and the wider reaction from security stakeholders.
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