Seadogs says insecurity worsening nationwide, call for state of emergency on kidnapping

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as Pyrates Confraternity, has called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on kidnapping, adding that it has become a crisis in Nigeria.

The Seadogs said the call becomes necessary  in response to a disturbing surge in abductions and the brutal killings of victims across the country.

In a Monday statement by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, NAS noted, “The value placed on human life has diminished to an alarming degree. Kidnapping has become a daily occurrence, with victims often murdered without hesitation. This terrifying reality underscores a dangerous societal shift where life is no longer sacred”.

The association highlighted recent incidents that underscore the gravity of the situation, including the kidnapping of an Anambra State Commissioner and his wife, while en route to Abuja.

The group also recalled the killing of one of the state government’s aides identified as Abubakar Offiah, saying such “is a stark illustration of the brutality of these criminals.

“Recently too, a former member of the House of Representatives, Joan Mrakpor, was kidnapped. The gunmen shot dead two persons while several people sustained injuries during the attack.

“Additionally, the abduction of over 20 medical students in Benue State, who were on their way to a conference, emphasizes that even those dedicated to the nation’s future are not safe from this menace.

“The pervasive nature of this insecurity is not limited to any one region but has affected almost every part of Nigeria. From the Southern states of Anambra, Imo, Delta, Edo, Rivers, and Bayelsa, to the Southwest in Osun and Oyo, and the Northern regions of Kogi, Kaduna, Zamfara, Taraba, and Borno, traveling across Nigeria has become a perilous endeavour,” the NAS Capn noted.

Oteri pointed out that the widespread nature of this crisis has created a national emergency that requires immediate and robust intervention.

He said, “The government’s failure to take decisive action has left many citizens feeling abandoned and vulnerable.

“Declaring a state of emergency on kidnapping would send a strong message that the government is committed to restoring order, safeguarding lives, and rebuilding trust in its institutions.”

The association also advised the Federal Government to “strengthen security forces by deploying additional security personnel, including military, police, and special anti-kidnapping units, to areas most affected by kidnapping; enhance their training, equip them with modern technology, and improve intelligence-gathering capabilities; set up victim support services by providing psychological support, counselling to victims of kidnapping and their families. This not only helps in their recovery but also builds confidence in the government’s commitment to tackling the issue.

“These among others are some critical steps towards addressing the security challenges that continue to threaten the lives and safety of Nigerians nationwide.”