The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, has strongly condemned the actions of security agencies in Nigeria for undermining human rights and democracy, News About Nigeria reports.
In a statement issued by its leader, Dr. Joseph Oteri, NAS criticised the growing trend of security forces targeting innocent citizens, particularly amid the nation’s worsening economic challenges and escalating insecurity.
NAS cited the recent arrest of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Comrade Joe Ajaero and the terrorism charges brought against protesters advocating against the high cost of living.
The association said it was deeply concerned over the misuse of power by security agencies, accusing them of bullying peaceful citizens under the guise of combating terrorism.
“The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) is deeply troubled by the current economic challenges facing Nigerians and the escalating insecurity gripping our nation,” the statement read.
NAS said that Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, faces numerous economic struggles, including high inflation, currency instability, low productivity, and poor governance, all of which jeopardise both growth and stability.
In addition, insecurity continues to rise, with a recent report from SBM Intelligence revealing 7,568 kidnappings in over 1,130 incidents between July 2023 and June 2024.
Against this backdrop, NAS condemned the actions of security agencies in charging peaceful protesters and unjustly targeting individuals like NLC President Ajaero.
“It is utterly unacceptable that instead of addressing critical economic and security issues, innocent citizens are being targeted unjustly,” the statement noted.
Dr. Oteri added that such heavy-handed tactics not only violate basic human rights but also erode public trust in the institutions responsible for ensuring safety.
The association called for a thorough investigation into the unjust persecution of innocent Nigerians, demanding accountability from authorities at all levels of government.
NAS also urged collaboration between government bodies, civil society organisations, religious leaders, and media professionals to find lasting solutions to the country’s security and economic crises.
“We must stand together to ensure that such injustices are not tolerated in our society,” Dr. Oteri concluded.
