Pyrates Confraternity Archives

Rivers: Seadogs Raise Concern Over Affirmation of Emergency Rule

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago04 mins

The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has expressed deep concern over how the National Assembly purportedly affirmed the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The association, in a statement by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, noted that the use of the ‘ayes and nays’ voice vote mechanism, rather than a transparent, recorded vote, raises serious questions about due process, democratic accountability, and the intent behind this critical decision. NAS said a matter as weighty as the imposition of emergency rule, which directly affects millions of Nigerians’ lives, rights, and governance, should not be subjected to a hasty, opaque process. The statement read, “The National Assembly has a constitutional duty to ensure that decisions of this magnitude are reached through proper debate, individual voting, and public scrutiny. “It is unacceptable that such an important resolution could be decided through a mere chorus of voices, leaving room for ambiguity and manipulation.” The association urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider his decision in light of the fundamental democratic principles underpinning the nation. “The President should also ensure that he is fair to the two parties involved in the Rivers crisis. The resort to emergency rule risks escalating tensions rather than resolving the ongoing political crisis,” the statement noted. NAS also charged elders of the Niger Delta region to take urgent steps to resolve the political impasse in Rivers State. “Instead of an emergency declaration, we call upon the elders and respected stakeholders of the state to rise to the occasion and initiate genuine reconciliation among all warring factions. “Political actors must set aside their differences and prioritize the state’s peace, stability, and development. Dialogue, not forceful interventions, remains the most effective tool for conflict resolution in a democracy. “The National Association of Seadogs remains committed to justice, the rule of law, and democratic accountability. We stand firmly against any attempt to undermine the democratic will of the people under the guise of emergency governance. “Nigeria must not be pushed down a path that erodes its hard-earned democratic values. We call on all well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organizations, and the international community to closely monitor this situation and insist on a democratic resolution that respects the people’s will,” the statement noted.

Nigeria @64: Pyrates Confraternity tasks FG to tackle Nation’s challenges

Our Reporters6 months ago6 months ago05 mins

The National Association of Seadogs aka Pyrates Confraternity has tasked on the Federal Government to implement economic measures to alleviate suffering of the Nigerian masses. The Pyrates Confraternity made the clarion call in a statement signed by its Capoon, Dr Joseph Oteri, on Monday. The statement reads; “As we mark the 64th Independence Day of our beloved country, the National Association of Seadogs, Pyrates Confraternity, stands in unity with all citizens in acknowledging our journey. “However, we must also address the urgent challenges that continue to undermine our progress and the well-being of millions of Nigerians. The Pyrates Confraternity calls on the Federal Government to immediately implement economic measures to alleviate the suffering of the Nigerian masses, especially the growing hunger. “The rising poverty and worsening economic conditions, if not addressed, threaten to spiral into widespread social unrest. Nigerians are becoming increasingly indifferent to Independence Day celebrations, as promises of progress have often gone unmet, leaving disillusionment in their wake. Poverty remains rampant, with over 133 million Nigerians—more than 60% of the population—living without access to basic necessities such as healthcare, education, and housing. “This economic crisis highlights the failure of policies to provide safety nets for the most vulnerable. The inflation rate has skyrocketed, with food inflation reaching an unprecedented 40.9% in June 2024. “This is further compounded by rising transportation costs and the effects of insecurity and climate change on food production. “Insecurity is also a major concern. Farmers are unable to access their farms due to attacks from bandits and herdsmen, causing a food crisis and linking rising food prices directly to the security situation. “We must ensure that our security agencies step up efforts to protect lives and properties so that agricultural productivity can thrive. “Corruption remains a stubborn obstacle to progress, with Nigeria ranking 145th out of 180 countries on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index. We call for the strengthening of anti-corruption agencies and the enforcement of accountability across all sectors of government. Corruption continues to erode the rule of law, weakening institutions and eroding public trust in the government. “Education is another critical sector in need of attention. Over 10 million children are out of school, a situation that has dire consequences for the future of our nation. We call on the government to allocate adequate resources to education, ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to quality schooling. “In conclusion, as we celebrate our 64th Independence Day, we must reflect on the future of Nigeria. The solution to our challenges lies in unity, the decentralization of governance, and genuine leadership that prioritizes the welfare of the people. “Together, let us work towards a Nigeria that is prosperous, secure, and equitable for all.”