The police officers in Zamfara State has alleged poor treatment by the federal government, alleging that the festivities were bleak for many families as their December salaries were just paid.
Speaking with journalists in Gusau, the state capital, a police officer identified as Godwin lamented that he could not provide the essential needs for his family.
An officer said; “Believe me, I did not buy clothes, shoes for any of my five children due to hardship. We are suffering as police people.
“Can we continue to live on borrowing even though we are fully employed by the federal government and we are not beggars.”
Other policemen who spoke to journalists expressed disappointment over the delay of salaries and allowances, warning that the delay in salary payment would not encourage officers to perform professionally.
A visit to banks in Gusau, showed crowded banking halls as police officers jostled to cash their December salaries today.
Most of the police officials told journalists that they have been at the bank since 6am but are unable to collect their monies, saying that the banks even ran out of cash in the AT.
They said that some of them that were sent to villages where armed bandits are operating and yet have not been paid their risks allowances.
The police officers appealed to the federal government to consider their families and treat them like human beings.
An officer said; “After all, it is our rights, not a privilege. The government should also consider the fact that they are at war with bandits and many have lost their lives in many operations.”
