N’Djamena, Chad – Abakar Police, a former law enforcement officer widely recognised in Chadian security circles, has been hospitalised for over a week at the Hôpital de la Renaissance after sustaining serious injuries from a fall in the shower. According to those familiar with his condition, he is now facing illness and hardship in near-complete isolation, with minimal medical support and no visible assistance from public authorities.
The case has drawn public attention following an appeal by Member of Parliament Takilal Ndolassem, who denounced the lack of official response. “Un homme qui a servi ce pays avec loyauté ne devrait pas finir ainsi, dans la solitude et l’indifférence,” said the MP. (“A man who served this country loyally should not end up like this, in solitude and indifference.”)
A Wider Issue Affecting Retired Public Servants
Abakar Police’s situation, though personal, is not unique. His story underscores a broader concern about how the Chadian state treats its retired civil servants, especially those who once served in security, military, and law enforcement capacities. Many former public officials reportedly face old age without adequate pensions, medical coverage, or institutional support.
“Il est allongé, sans soins adaptés, sans accompagnement. Il attend, en silence, qu’on se souvienne de lui,” said a nurse currently working at the hospital. (“He lies there, without appropriate care, without support. He waits, in silence, to be remembered.”)
No Recognition After Service
Critics argue that the nation appears to distance itself from those who once risked their lives to uphold its institutions. Once retired or dismissed, many former officials reportedly fade into obscurity, with little to no continued recognition from the state.
“Il ne demande ni gloire, ni privilège. Juste un peu de dignité et de reconnaissance dans un moment aussi critique,” said MP Takilal Ndolassem. (“He asks for neither glory nor privilege. Just a bit of dignity and recognition at such a critical moment.”)
Questions on Social Security and Emergency Response
The case also raises structural concerns regarding Chad’s social protection systems. Observers are now questioning the effectiveness of state mechanisms meant to provide pensions, healthcare, or emergency relief for public servants and veterans of the security forces.
What value does public service hold, they ask, if those who dedicate their careers to the nation receive little to no support in return?
A Call for Action and Recognition
While MP Ndolassem’s statement sparked an initial wave of public awareness, broader institutional response remains absent. As the former officer remains in a hospital bed awaiting assistance, the moment presents a critical opportunity for authorities to reassess policies regarding support for retired agents of the state.
A visit, a word of encouragement, or even minimal financial or logistical assistance could signal that the Republic remembers its servants. Such a gesture could affirm that service to the nation is not met with silence and abandonment—but with gratitude and continued respect.
