The Federal Government has decided to withdraw the contentious Veteran Federation of Nigeria Bill following strong objections from military retirees. The bill faced criticism for several provisions, especially those related to rank-based appointments, which retirees argued were unfair.
The decision to withdraw the bill was made after a meeting between the Coalition of Concerned Veterans and the Ministry of Defence earlier this week. The Secretary of the coalition, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, confirmed this development in an interview on Friday.
“During our meeting with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence on Monday, he assured us that the bill would be withdrawn. A ratification committee will be formed, including representatives from the Ministry of Defence, the National Assembly, the Office of the Attorney General, and veterans,” Durowaiye-Herberts said.
The committee will review the contentious sections of the bill, ensure leadership positions in the veterans’ structure are democratically elected, and prepare a revised version for presentation to the National Assembly.
Durowaiye-Herberts added that while the process might not be completed before the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the committee’s work is expected to be finished by the end of January.
“Veterans are cautiously optimistic. We want transparency and timely results to ensure our grievances are addressed and a fair structure is established,” he said.
Efforts to get a response from the Ministry of Defence spokesperson, Henshaw Ogbuike, were unsuccessful as calls and messages went unanswered.
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