Stop Bullying Innocent Nigerians, NAS Tells Security Agencies
By Our Reporter
The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) unequivocally condemns the actions of security agencies that trample upon fundamental human rights and undermine Nigeria's democratic values.
The association, in a recent statement by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, said it is concerned that in the face of Nigerians' current economic challenges and the escalating insecurity gripping the nation, security agencies are adding to the burden by bullying innocent Nigerians.
Citing the cases of the recent arrest of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the charges of terrorism against several anti-high cost of living protesters, the association said it is highly distressing to witness security agencies resorting to bullying innocent citizens under the guise of combating terrorism and related charges.
The statement read, "The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) is deeply troubled by the current economic challenges facing Nigerians and the escalating insecurity gripping our nation.
"It is evident that Nigeria, as Africa's largest economy, is grappling with many economic issues such as high inflation, foreign exchange rate volatility, low productivity, weak governance, and inadequate infrastructure. These challenges not only threaten our growth prospects but also jeopardize stability.
"In addition to these pressing economic concerns, insecurity in Nigeria is on the rise. The recent report by SBM Intelligence revealing 7,568 people kidnapped in 1,130 incidents between July 2023 and June 2024 paints a grim picture of the pervasive insecurity plaguing our country.
"Amidst these alarming circumstances where Nigerians are already bearing the brunt of economic hardships and living in fear due to escalating insecurity, it is highly distressing to witness security agencies resorting to bullying innocent citizens under the guise of combating terrorism and related charges.
"The reports coming to light about #EndBadGovernance protesters facing terrorism charges for exercising their constitutional rights through peaceful protests are deeply concerning.
"Furthermore, individuals such as the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress being subjected to arbitrary probes without clear justification only fuel this worrying trend.
"It is utterly unacceptable that instead of addressing these critical issues affecting our nation – both economically and regarding security – innocent citizens are being targeted unjustly by security agencies."
The NAS Capn said such heavy-handed tactics violate fundamental human rights and erode trust between citizens and those entrusted with ensuring their safety.
He added, "The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) unequivocally condemns these actions by security agencies which trample upon basic human rights and undermine democratic values."
Therefore, NAS has called for a thorough investigation of innocent Nigerians being unjustly persecuted.
It added that Nigeria's democracy was built upon principles such as fairness, justice, and equality before the law. It is incumbent on all relevant authorities at federal, state, and local levels to ensure that those responsible for perpetrating violations against Nigerian citizens are held accountable within Nigerian laws and international human rights standards.
"We urge all stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society organisations, religious leaders, and media professionals, among others, to collaborate to find lasting solutions that will improve the overall safety and well-being of our fellow compatriots.
"It's time for us all to unite to condemn bullying against innocent Nigerians and give them a voice. They do not deserve injustices perpetrated on them, especially during this period when many families are struggling due to harsh economic realities coupled with pervasive insecurity across different parts of Nigeria. We must stand together to ensure that such injustices are not tolerated in our society," he concluded.
