The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word TRIBUNES
T
R
I
B
U
N
E
S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Roman officers" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case roman officers = tribunes.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does TRIBUNES mean?
TRIBUNES noun- An elected official in Ancient Rome.
- A protector of the people.
- The domed or vaulted apse in a Christian church that houses the bishop's throne.
- A place or an opportunity to speak, to express one's opinion; a platform or pulpit.