The Lagos State Police Command has categorically denied allegations that tear gas was used against pensioners during a protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly on August 31, 2026. In a statement released on Tuesday, the police described the circulating images that purportedly depict the incident as generated by artificial intelligence, asserting that no tear gas was deployed during the event.

The protest, organized by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), saw approximately 500 retirees gather at the Lagos State Government Secretariat to demand overdue pension adjustments and wage awards. The demonstration was led by NUP Chairman Comrade Michael Omishade and the Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Agnes Funmi Sesse. The retirees were seeking redress for long-standing grievances regarding unpaid pension increases and adjustments, which have been a point of contention between them and the state government.

According to the police, the protest was peaceful and well-managed, with security personnel from various divisions deployed to ensure order. Abimbola Adebisi, the police spokesperson, emphasized that the command's primary responsibility is to maintain law and order while safeguarding the rights of citizens to assemble peacefully. She stated, "Not a single canister of tear gas was fired throughout the duration of the protest," and labeled the allegations as "false and misleading."

The police's statement also highlighted that the Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Tayo Akinmade Ayinde, addressed the protesters during the demonstration. Following this interaction, the NUP executives were invited for a meeting at the Governor’s Conference Hall, which lasted about three hours. The protest concluded peacefully around 4:30 PM, with no incidents reported.

In light of the misinformation circulating on social media, the police urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims that could incite tension or undermine public confidence in law enforcement. The police reiterated their commitment to protecting citizens' rights to peaceful assembly and expression.

Looking ahead, the pensioners are expected to meet with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu later this week to present their demands directly, a development that has garnered attention from the Governor’s Office. This meeting could potentially pave the way for a resolution to the ongoing disputes regarding pension payments and adjustments, which have left many retirees in a precarious financial situation.

The situation reflects ongoing challenges faced by pensioners in Lagos State, as they continue to advocate for their rights and seek accountability from the government regarding their entitlements.