In a grave expression of concern over the escalating kidnapping crisis in Nigeria, 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 urgently.
The call comes in response to a disturbing surge in abductions and the brutal killings of victims, which have become increasingly rampant across the country.
However, in a statement issued Monday by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, the situation has reached a critical point, with criminal elements operating with impunity and spreading fear and chaos among the populace.
According to section 33(1) of the 1999 Constitution, “Every person has a right to life, and no one shall be deprived intentionally of his life, save in execution of the sentence of a court in respect of a criminal offence of which he has been found guilty in Nigeria.”
“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,” Oteri added.
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 fatal killing of one of the state government’s aides identified as Abubakar Offiah during the attack is a stark illustration of the brutality of these criminals, the statement stressed.
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.
The NAS Capn noted, “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.”
Oteri pointed out that the widespread nature of this crisis has created a national emergency that requires immediate and robust intervention.
“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,” he said.
As a way out of the situation, the association advised the Federal Government to among others, “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.”